Just months after making Emmy history as the oldest lead drama actress nominee for the CBS reboot of “Matlock,” Kathy Bates is thriving at 77. In a revealing interview with Variety, Bates described this stage of her life as one of “redemption,” saying she finally feels like her true self.
(Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images)“I’ve fought my way through the rapids. I feel this is the best time of my life,” she said. “I’m so glad I stuck around for it.” See her photo:
A Career Still Breaking Records at 77
While many choose retirement, Bates is thriving as the lead of “Matlock,” which debuted as the number one TV series with 17 million viewers across broadcast and streaming. Deadline reported it also ranked as the second most-watched show of the 2024-2025 season.
(Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)Her career honors continue to grow. Just last month, she received the 2025 Career Achievement Award from the Television Critics Association, adding to her long list of accolades.
Bates Opens Up About 100-Pound Weight Loss
(Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)The Oscar winner also shared emotional details about her 100-pound weight loss journey. She recalled crying after slipping into a dress her stylist brought, assuming it would not fit. “I just started crying and crying,” she said. “I’m still figuring out what it’s like to be without all of that weight.”
(Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for TCM)Addressing speculation around her transformation, Bates offered a bold response: “F–k you, it was the Ozempic!” She explained that years of dedication, a diabetes diagnosis, and eventually Ozempic helped her shed the final 15 to 20 pounds. “It took me years to do this,” she said.
“When Ozempic came along, I was able to lose the last 15 to 20 pounds and keep it off.”
Cancer Survival & Living Fully
The “Titanic” star has battled both ovarian and breast cancer in recent years. Surviving these challenges gave her a new perspective on life. In a conversation with Parade, Bates said she became “less of a hermit” and made travel a priority.
Today, she keeps her health routine simple, walking daily and using a treadmill at home. Above all, she treasures each day. “I really enjoy every moment of my life now,” Bates said, her resilience shining through every word.
