Kathy Bates Explains Matlock Comments on Red Carpet

Don't count Kathy Bates out just yet. The Oscar-winning actress sparked some concern when she mentioned that her new series, Matlock, would be her "last dance." However, on the red carpet at the 2024 Emmy Awards, Bates clarified that she loves her new role so much that she’d be happy to continue for years.

Bates explained to Entertainment Weekly and PEOPLE that her initial plans to retire changed once she read the script for Matlock. She said, "What I meant was, I had one foot out the door until I read the script... and I said, 'Ooooooookay, close the door. We're gonna do some more.'" She expressed her desire for the show to run for many years, calling it exceptional.

Previously, Bates had indicated that Matlock might be her final project after a challenging film shoot led her to consider retirement. She commented on her deep commitment to her roles, stating, "It becomes my life. Sometimes I get jealous of having this talent because I can’t hold it back."

A representative for Bates clarified that she isn't ready to retire, emphasizing her hope for Matlock to have a long run. Despite the uncertainty, Bates believes the show has great potential, describing it as "like nothing I've ever experienced."

Reflecting on her return to network television, Bates highlighted the excitement and creativity brought to each script by showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman. She mentioned the passion and joy on set, saying, "Everybody's excited, and you can just feel it."

Matlock is set to debut on CBS and streaming on Paramount+ on September 22.