Kathy Bates, the legendary actress best known for her unforgettable performances in Misery and Titanic, has officially announced her retirement from acting. After decades of delivering powerful and beloved roles, Bates opened up about her decision in a heartfelt interview, reflecting on her remarkable career and the reasons behind her decision to step away.
In an interview published on Sunday, September 8, the 76-year-old actress revealed that her role as Madeline Matlock in the reboot of Matlock will likely be her final performance. “This is my last dance,” Bates said, signaling her readiness to retire from the industry. She shared that she had previously considered stepping back after a particularly grueling movie shoot left her emotionally drained and in tears.
Bates reflected on the challenges of her career, saying, “It becomes my life. Sometimes I get jealous of having this talent. Because I can’t hold it back, and I just want my life.” Despite her intentions to retire earlier, the Matlock script reignited her passion for acting, drawing her back for one last role.
Looking back on her early career, Bates shared candidly about the emotional toll of acting, admitting that she used to get her feelings hurt easily. “Sometimes I’d get on a plane and fly home,” she recalled, underscoring the personal sacrifices she made throughout her journey in the entertainment world.
Kathy Bates’ retirement marks the end of an extraordinary era for both her fans and the film industry. As she steps away from the spotlight, her legacy as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and talented actresses will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of performers.
