Kathy Bates’ mother’s response to her Oscar win wasn't as enthusiastic as one might expect.
In a candid interview with Ben Mankiewicz on "CBS Sunday Morning," Kathy Bates detailed the blend of personal sacrifice and career achievements that define her storied life in Hollywood, Fox News reported.
Kathy Bates, a venerated figure in the acting world, recently shared glimpses of her personal life and the influence her mother had on her, despite a lukewarm reaction to Bates’ Academy Award win for her role in "Misery." Bates' mother bluntly remarked that winning an Oscar wasn’t on par with discovering the cure for cancer.
In the interview, Bates recalled the Oscars night when she forgot to mention her mother in her acceptance speech, a detail that seemed to trouble her. Thankfully, a clip from the awards showed that Bates did thank her during her speech, much to Bates' relief.
Seeing this clip, Bates became emotional, expressing regret that her mother could not fully revel in her daughter’s successes. She wished her mother had allowed herself to enjoy more of life, reflecting on the sacrifices both her parents made.
Bates' reflections took a deeper dive into her family life during the interview. She acknowledged her parents' significant financial sacrifices, including delaying their retirement to fund her education at Southern Methodist University. These sacrifices placed a heavy burden on her father, who suffered health issues as a result.
Her father's hardships were particularly poignant for Bates. "My father had a heart attack after two or three years of giving up… he had to spend a fortune we didn’t have to send me to Southern Methodist University, and went to work when he was in his 70s," Bates shared. These familial struggles deeply shaped her perspective and career ethos.
Bates conveyed a deep connection to her mother, even in death, wishing her spirit could have joined her to experience the joy her successes brought, a poignant testament to their complicated relationship.
Bates discussed her recent career decisions, including considering retirement. She revealed feeling a sense of exhaustion that made retirement seem appealing. "Everything I’ve prayed for worked for, clawed my way up for, I am suddenly able to be asked to use all of it. And it’s exhausting," she stated, reflecting on the wear of her long and illustrious career.
However, her role in the new series "Matlock" has rejuvenated her enthusiasm for acting. Bates described this role as a significant motivator, not only continuing her career but also hoping for the show's longevity.
Highlighting her resilience, Bates commented on past betrayals in Hollywood and how these experiences nearly pushed her to an early retirement. Yet, the satisfying experience in "Matlock" reaffirmed her decision to keep acting. "Not retiring. And I’d love to stay with the show as long as it runs, and I hope it runs a very long time," Bates remarked optimistically.
The veteran actress’s experience in Hollywood has been marked by remarkable highs and notable lows. Her career journey has been anything but linear, with each role testing her resilience and dedication to her craft.
Bates' story is not uncommon in the demanding world of Hollywood, where personal sacrifice often collides with the pursuit of artistic and public recognition. Still, her ability to reflect on her past honestly and openly offers a unique window into the life of one of film's most respected actresses.
In conclusion, Kathy Bates' journey through Hollywood has been as turbulent as it has been rewarding. Her recent revelations provide not only a glimpse into her personal life but also into the ongoing challenges faced by even the most esteemed actors in the industry.
