In a raw and candid interview, Oscar-winning actress Kathy Bates opened up about her harrowing experience with opioid addiction, the challenges of ageing in Hollywood, and her battle with cancer. The 76-year-old star, known for her iconic roles in films like “Misery” and “Fried Green Tomatoes,” held nothing back as she shared her story.
A Brush with Opioids
Bates revealed that she had a brief encounter with opioids while recovering from cancer. “I was in a lot of pain, for some reason,” she confessed. “I kept asking for better medication, and my doctors refused to give me what I wanted.” It wasn’t until later that she realized their caution was due to the rampant opioid epidemic.
I took this one pill and – oh my God – my whole body was just gone. There was no pain anywhere. And I thought, ‘I get it. I get why people want this.’
Kathy Bates on her experience with opioids
The actress acknowledged the devastating impact of opioids, particularly the role of pharmaceutical companies like the Sackler family’s Purdue Pharma in fueling the crisis. “They’re totally busted,” she stated. “There are still about 100,000 people dying of this.”
Battling Cancer and Ageism
Bates, a two-time cancer survivor, also spoke candidly about the challenges of ageing in an industry obsessed with youth. “One wants to feel useful,” she explained. “What happens when you get older – certainly if you lose your job and find it impossible to get back into the workforce – is that you miss the feeling of being part of something, the feeling of being helpful.”
Despite her legendary status, Bates admitted to facing ageism in Hollywood. “I was never the ingenue,” she once famously said. “I’ve always just been a character actor.” However, in the era of streaming and prestige television, Bates sees new opportunities for seasoned performers.
A New Chapter with “Matlock”
Bates’ latest project, a reboot of the classic legal drama “Matlock,” has her taking on the titular role originated by Andy Griffith. In the series, her character, Madeline “Matty” Matlock, uses people’s preconceptions about older women to her advantage in the courtroom.
People look through her, so she can glide past security guards; people underestimate her, so she can bedevil them in negotiations; people shout over her like she isn’t there, so she destroys them in a way that’s pleasing to watch.
On Bates’ character in “Matlock”
The show tackles weighty issues, including the opioid epidemic and sexual harassment in the entertainment industry, through the lens of its savvy and relatable protagonist. For Bates, it’s an opportunity to showcase the wisdom and tenacity of older women while entertaining and educating viewers.
A Legacy of Fearless Performances
Throughout her career, Bates has never shied away from challenging roles. Her breakthrough performance as the obsessive fan Annie Wilkes in “Misery” earned her an Academy Award and cemented her status as a fearless actress.
I’m not a stunning woman. I was never an ingenue. I’ve always just been a character actor.
Kathy Bates on her career
From her Emmy-nominated turn as the ghost of Charlie Harper on “Two and a Half Men” to her scene-stealing performances in “American Horror Story,” Bates has consistently proven her versatility and depth as a performer.
A Voice for Change
As she enters a new phase of her career, Bates remains committed to using her platform to effect change. Whether it’s advocating for better roles for older actresses or shining a light on important social issues, she continues to be a powerful voice in the industry.
We’re different with everybody we meet, and we meet people that rejuvenate us and make us excited about being in the world. But that’s rare.
Kathy Bates on meaningful connections
With her raw honesty, undeniable talent, and unwavering commitment to her craft, Kathy Bates remains an inspiration to aspiring actors and a beacon of hope for those struggling with addiction, illness, and the challenges of ageing in a youth-obsessed world. As she embarks on this new chapter with “Matlock,” fans can expect more of the fearless performances and thought-provoking storytelling that have defined her legendary career.
