As a gamer with a penchant for TV trivia and a soft spot for Kathy Bates, I can’t help but feel a mix of relief and excitement upon learning that her so-called “last dance” on Matlock might not be her final bow after all. The woman is nothing short of a powerhouse in the small screen universe, delivering iconic performances that have left indelible marks on our collective consciousness.
In an interview with The New York Times in September, Kathy Bates mentioned her CBS series Matlock and stated, “This will be my final performance.” However, the announcement sparked a flurry of activity on the internet as people questioned whether she was truly retiring from acting.
1984 marked the beginning of Ms. Bates’ television journey, with her debut on ABC’s sitcom “All My Children.” Since then, she’s dazzled audiences in minor roles across various genres, including legal dramas like “LA Law,” comedies such as “Mike & Molly” and “The Big Bang Theory,” and even horror productions. Her first Emmy Award came from a guest appearance on “Two and a Half Men.” Beyond her film success, her television career has truly shone brightly.
To pay tribute to Bates’ alleged “final dance,” let’s review some of her most outstanding and unforgettable TV performances instead.
Madeline Matlock: Matlock (2024-)
Writing network sitcoms might seem overly clean-cut for certain preferences, but CBS’ “Matlock” offers an entertaining and diverse ensemble instead. Intriguing tidbits sprinkled throughout add a layer of complexity, particularly regarding Maddy’s age gap with her coworkers. Each case compels you to take sides, making it hard not to root for one party over another.
Madame Marie Delphine La Laurie: American Horror Story: Coven (2018)
Bates has portrayed some of the most memorable villains on television. Lana Laurie is a cruel and murderous slave owner, kept alive by a voodoo curse from her enemy. Despite her heinous actions, Bates manages to make Delphine captivating, earning her a second Emmy for it. We can’t help but despise her, yet we eagerly anticipate her downfall—and find ourselves unable to look away. In a later season, titled “Apocalypse,” Delphine makes a brief appearance!
Ruth Whitefeather Feldman: Disjointed (2017-2018)
How excited was the cannabis enthusiast group when they learned this series was coming out? Bates shone as Ruth, a dispensary owner, divorcee, and mother. The show itself had its flaws with inconsistent writing and bothersome laughter effects—but Bates managed to make it humorous, endearing, and tackle important topics related to marijuana usage and the legal aspects surrounding it.
Agnes Mary Winstead: American Horror Story: Roanoke (2021)
In a time when reality and illusion blur, and malevolent spirits haunt every corner—Bates skillfully portrays a villain hidden within another villain. Agnes, the actress, becomes so immersed in her ruthless ‘Butcher’ character that she mistreats her fellow performers with various sharp objects. However, Bates manages to evoke a tinge of sympathy for her.
Jo Bennett: The Office (2005-2013)
In the American adaptation of “The Office,” joining such an adored cast later on could have been intimidating. However, Kate Bates impressively matched up as Jo Bennett, the CEO of Sabre, who takes over a financially stricken Dunder Mifflin. Her iconic hairstyle, firm demeanor, and gigantic dogs are as indelible in our minds as she is.
Miriam Mead: American Horror Story: Apocalypse (2018)
Occasionally, I ponder if Ryan Murphy simply reaches out to actors with unusual roles like, “Hey, how about portraying a Satanist turned into a robot after being set ablaze?”, and if he does, it’s clear that Bates eagerly accepted the offer. Miriam Mead, in her roles as a ruthless assassin, robotic killer, and Satanist, certainly makes the streaming worthwhile.
Officer Jane Cooper: King of the Hill (1997-2009)
Indeed, this guest role on an established series was a standout, much like Alabaster or the driving instructor. Bates’ portrayal of the cop who inappropriately harasses Hank Hill – a moment he would never forget – left a lasting impression. The episode delves into double standards and may be the reason she gladly voiced the character initially.
Mrs. Fowler: The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)
Many married individuals would likely agree that organizing and carrying out a wedding can be incredibly taxing, often with the bride and groom’s parents being the ones to add stress. This sentiment is clearly conveyed when Bates plays the role of the bride’s mother in the wedding episodes of Big Bang Theory.
Ethel Darling: American Horror Story: Freak Show (2014)
Actors often garner acclaim when they deliberately step out of traditional beauty standards to portray unconventional or frightening characters. Charlize Theron in “Monster” and the entire cast of “Hillbilly Elegy” serve as excellent examples. Given this, Bates’ Emmy-worthy performance as Ethel Darling, a single mom with a beard, is noteworthy. The portrayal of her unique accent, tragic death, and endearing bond with her son Jimmy (Evan Peters) are all compelling reasons to tune in to the series this season.
Bettina: Six Feet Under (2001-2005)
It’s no shock when a character portrayed by Bates exhibits boldness, humor, and ease with law-breaking activities. The contrast between Bettina, the caretaker role she played in HBO’s Six Feet Under, and her caretaker character in Delores Claiborne is quite striking. If it were up to Ms. Bates’ portrayal of Bettina, I might even find myself tempted to shoplift.
Initially, Kathy Bates may have led people to believe that her current CBS series, Matlock, was her final acting role, hinting at retirement. However, upon clarification, she revealed to People magazine that what she truly meant was “How could it get any better?” She expressed a desire for the show to continue running.
So would we, Kathy. Never leave us!
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2024-12-11 20:15