Kathy Bates: From Misery to Matlock, Health Battles & Triumphs

Kathy Bates, an actress with over 200 credits, has achieved legendary status, beginning with her Oscar-winning performance in the 1990 film "Misery." Her career spans iconic films like "Titanic" and "The Blind Side," alongside Emmy-winning television work, including "American Horror Story: Coven." Bates was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on June 28, 1948, and pursued acting in New York City after graduating from Southern Methodist University.

Her early career saw success on stage, with Broadway roles and a Tony nomination for "'night, Mother." The 1990 performance in "Misery" was a defining moment, earning her the Academy Award for Best Actress. She later married actor Tony Campisi, though they divorced in 1997 after nearly two decades together.

Bates's journey has also involved significant health challenges. She battled ovarian cancer in 2003 and breast cancer in 2012, which led to lymphedema. She has become a spokesperson for lymphedema awareness, advocating for treatments. Despite these struggles, she has also shared her successful weight loss journey, losing 100 pounds over six years.

Adding to her accolades, Bates won two Emmy Awards, including one for "American Horror Story: Coven." She continues to captivate audiences, currently starring in and executive producing the legal drama "Matlock." In January 2025, she received the Critics Choice Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for her role in "Matlock," making history as its oldest nominee for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series.