Kathy Bates, 76, has announced her retirement from acting following her lead role in the CBS reboot of 'Matlock,' which premieres on September 22. Bates, who won an Oscar for 'Misery' and has had a prolific career with multiple Emmy wins, revealed that she had contemplated retirement after a recent unpleasant movie shoot but decided to take on 'Matlock' after connecting deeply with the character. She describes her acting career as exhausting but fulfilling, stating that the role of Madeline Matlock allowed her to use all her accumulated skills. Bates has faced significant challenges, including two battles with cancer, and has been a prominent figure in Hollywood for over five decades. This final role is seen as a fitting conclusion to her storied career.