Kathy Bates Announces Retirement from Acting

Kathy Bates, the legendary 76-year-old actress, has announced her retirement from acting, revealing that her upcoming role in the CBS reboot of 'Matlock' will be her last performance. In an interview with The New York Times, she expressed feelings of exhaustion and reflected on the pain and challenges of her career, stating, 'This is my last dance.' Despite her critical acclaim, including an Oscar for her role in 'Misery,' Bates has often felt like a misfit in Hollywood. She initially considered retirement after a troubling film shoot, but was drawn back by the compelling script of 'Matlock,' which she described as an opportunity to use all her talents. The reboot, which also addresses themes of ageism, is set to premiere its pilot on September 22, with the full series launching on October 17. Throughout her career, Bates has garnered multiple awards, including two Emmys and two Golden Globes, solidifying her status as a Hollywood icon.