Kathy Bates Reflects on Oscar Win and Family Sacrifices
Kathy Bates recently opened up about her Oscar win during an interview with Ben Mankiewicz on “CBS Sunday Morning.” The acclaimed actress, who received the Best Actress award for her role in the 1990 thriller “Misery,” shared a surprising reaction from her mother regarding this significant achievement.
Unexpected Reaction from Mom
Bates recounted that when she won the prestigious award, her mother was less than thrilled. “When I won the Oscar for ‘Misery,’ she said, ‘I don’t know what all the excitement is about; you didn’t discover the cure for cancer,’” Bates recalled. This candid remark highlighted a unique perspective on success and recognition within their family dynamic.
During their discussion, Mankiewicz played a clip of Bates’ acceptance speech where she did indeed thank her mother—a moment that brought tears of relief to Bates as she reflected on their relationship. She expressed a deep desire for her mother’s spirit to be part of her life experiences after her passing: “Even though we had so many difficulties, I wanted her spirit to come into me and enjoy everything I was enjoying because of what she’d given up.”
A Legacy of Sacrifice
Earlier in the conversation, Bates revealed how much her parents sacrificed to support her education. She noted that they postponed retirement plans so they could afford to send her to Southern Methodist University. Her father even suffered health issues due to stress while working well into his 70s just to ensure Kathy could pursue acting.
Bates emphasized this point by saying, “My father literally had a heart attack after two or three years of giving up… he had to spend a fortune we didn’t have.” This acknowledgment underscores not only gratitude but also an understanding of familial love and sacrifice.
Considering Retirement After “Matlock”
In recent interviews, including one with The New York Times last month, Bates hinted at contemplating retirement following the conclusion of filming for “Matlock,” which has been described as one of the most fulfilling roles she’s ever undertaken. She stated: “Everything I’ve prayed for…I am suddenly able to be asked to use all of it. And it’s exhausting.”
Despite these thoughts about stepping back from acting—calling it “my last dance”—her experience with “Matlock” has reignited some passion within herself: “Not retiring. And I’d love to stay with the show as long as it runs,” she affirmed.
Challenges in Hollywood
Bates also discussed facing challenges in Hollywood that made her reconsider continuing in such an unpredictable industry. She mentioned having endured difficult experiences during certain film projects which left emotional scars: “I think when you feel that kind of betrayal, it really devastates.” However, landing this new role allowed Kathy not only a fresh start but also renewed enthusiasm toward acting once again.
Conclusion
Kathy Bates’ journey through fame is marked by both triumphs and trials—an intricate tapestry woven together by personal sacrifices and professional achievements. As she navigates this next chapter in life while reflecting on past struggles and victories alike, fans eagerly await what lies ahead for this talented actress who continues inspiring many through both storytelling and resilience.
