Kathy Bates was shocked to learn how wrong she was about her 33-year Oscar disappointment

Kathy Bates, the multi-award-winning actress, recently reflected on her illustrious career and iconic roles during an interview on *CBS Sunday Morning* with Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz. At 76 years old, Bates looked back on her Oscar-winning performance as Annie Wilkes in the 1990 psychological thriller *Misery*, based on Stephen King’s novel. Despite the accolades, Bates shared a humorous yet poignant moment from her past regarding her mother’s reaction to her Oscar win.

During the interview, Bates recalled how her mother was unimpressed, saying, “I don’t know what all the excitement’s about. You didn’t discover the cure for cancer.” Bates attributed this unusual reaction to her own belief that she had neglected to thank her mother during her acceptance speech. Mankiewicz clarified that she had indeed mentioned her mother in her speech, which led to an emotional moment when they showed her the recording. Upon seeing it, Bates was initially bewildered but then relieved and grateful, exclaiming, “Thank you!” She reflected on the sacrifices her parents made for her acting career, emphasizing that her mother “should have had my life.”

Bates, born in Memphis, Tennessee, credited her parents—her father, a mechanical engineer, and her mother, a homemaker—for their unwavering support. They funded her education at Southern Methodist University, with her father working into his 70s to ensure she could pursue her dreams. Bates poignantly expressed her desire to honor her mother’s spirit, particularly after her passing in 1997.

Regarding her future in acting, rumors circulated in September 2024 about her potential retirement after her role in the upcoming *Matlock* reboot. However, Bates clarified that she is not retiring, expressing her enthusiasm for continuing on the show as long as it runs. The new *Matlock*, where she plays Madeline “Matty” Matlock, is set to premiere on CBS on October 17, featuring a cast that includes Jason Ritter and Leah Lewis.

Bates’ legacy continues to grow, and her reflections on her career and family reveal the deep connections that have shaped her journey in the entertainment industry.