Kathy Bates Reflects on Health Transformation and Career Renaissance

Kathy Bates is experiencing a career revival, and she credits her improved health for making all the difference. The Oscar-winning actress opened up about her journey while attending the PaleyFest screening of Matlock in Los Angeles on March 23, revealing how her well-being has reshaped her time on set.

A Stark Contrast from the Past

Reflecting on her time filming the 2011 legal drama Harry’s Law, Bates, 76, recalled how her weight made filming physically challenging.

“When I was so heavy in Harry’s Law, I had to sit down between every take, and it was awful. I’m ashamed to have put myself through that, to be honest,” she admitted.

Now, after prioritizing her health, she says the difference is life-changing.

“I can move, I can breathe, I can have fun, I’m not sore. I get tired and realize I’m like an old lady—but even the kids get tired! It’s been a magnificent experience.”

A New Chapter with Matlock

Bates is currently leading the CBS reboot of Matlock, a role she never expected at this stage in her career.

“I never imagined having this opportunity at my age, at the end of my career,” she said, expressing gratitude for the strong support behind the show.

Her renewed energy has allowed her to fully embrace the role, something she couldn’t do before.

“Physically, I’m capable of doing this show. I don’t have to sit down. I can stand up all day long, walk, move, breathe—so many things I couldn’t do before.”

Her Weight Loss Journey

Back in October 2024, Bates shared with PEOPLE that she had lost 80 pounds over seven years through lifestyle changes, followed by an additional 20 pounds with the help of Ozempic.

“It’s hard work for me, especially during the pandemic,” she admitted. “It’s very hard to say you’ve had enough.”

Her motivation came after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2017, an event she says “scared me straight” after witnessing the disease’s impact on her family.

Grateful for the Journey

Now, as Matlock continues to thrive, Bates feels nothing but gratitude.

“I’m pinching myself over how unbelievable this experience has been,” she told PEOPLE.

She also praised the cast and crew, adding, “When we come to work every day, there’s so much love on that set… walking onto that set feels like a miracle. I’m so grateful to all of them.”

At 76, Kathy Bates is proving that it’s never too late to start fresh—both in career and in health.