Kathy Bates Discusses Hollywood Casting Biases

Kathy Bates has revealed that director Garry Marshall declined to cast her in the 1991 film adaptation of 'Frankie and Johnny,' a role she originated on stage, because he did not consider her conventionally attractive or believable as a romantic lead. Despite earning critical acclaim for her stage performance and winning an Academy Award for 'Misery' that same year, Bates was passed over in favor of Michelle Pfeiffer, who starred opposite Al Pacino. Bates described ongoing struggles with Hollywood's beauty standards, including painful moments like a journalist questioning the believability of her on-screen marriage to a leading man. Such incidents left her feeling excluded and at times in tears. However, Bates now feels a sense of vindication and acceptance due to her enduring career. Her reflections highlight persistent industry biases regarding appearance and casting.