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Kathy Bates Slams NBC’s Past Decisions While Celebrating ‘Matlock’
Kathy Bates has recently made headlines not just for her new role in the revived series Matlock, but also for her candid criticisms of NBC’s past treatment towards her show, Harry’s Law. The actress, now at the helm of a series that appeals to older audiences, finds herself reflecting on her history with the network.
Bates’s grievances date back to the cancellation of Harry’s Law, which aired for just two seasons despite attracting around 10 million viewers each week. In an interview with TCA in 2013, she expressed her belief that NBC treated her cast poorly, saying, “They kicked us to the curb. They disrespected us,” pointing out the inconsistency in viewership expectations for older targeted programming.
Fast-forward to 2025, Bates shared her thoughts regarding the success of Matlock in an interview with Variety. Reflecting on the past, she stated, “Success is the best revenge,” especially as the series garners attention and praise for its relatable storytelling aimed at older audiences.
Are Older Audiences Being Ignored?
Bates emphasized that prior dismissals about the potential of older audiences led to a misunderstanding of market dynamics. She boldly stated, “They said, ‘We can’t monetize old people,’” reinforcing her frustrations with industry stereotypes. As Matlock gains traction, she sees this as a direct challenge to those initial beliefs held by the network executives.
“It feels totally different from my past accolades,” Bates mentioned, referring to her performance in Matlock and her historic nomination at the Emmys. This acknowledgment signifies not just her perseverance in the industry but also a comeback for programs centered around older adults.
Confronting Ageism in Entertainment
The 77-year-old actress stands as the oldest nominee for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series at the Emmys, and she is favored to win this prestigious award. Their win could be seen as a significant message against ageism within the entertainment sector.
Bates has accumulated awards over her extensive career, including an Oscar, two Emmys, and a Golden Globe. Yet, the accolades recognized at this stage of her life present a new and refreshing narrative about aged artistry in television and film.
What’s Next for Kathy Bates?
As Matlock prepares for its upcoming second season, set to premiere on October 12, viewers can expect more engaging storylines that resonate with the older demographic. Kathy Bates, with her career exhibiting remarkable breadth and resilience, sets an example for both seasoned actors and aspiring ones, particularly in challenging age stereotypes in showbiz.
In terms of her future projects, fans eagerly await to see if Bates’s influence will prompt networks to reconsider how they view and develop content for older audiences. Keeping the conversation alive, she continues to advocate for the value of narratives aimed at adults, reaffirming that there is a rich tapestry of experiences worth telling and sharing through television.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Kathy Bates criticize about NBC?
Kathy Bates criticized NBC for how they treated her show Harry’s Law, claiming it was disregarded despite drawing significant viewership.
What is the premise of Matlock?
Matlock is a courtroom drama featuring Bates as a seasoned defense attorney, focusing on complex legal cases and moral questions.
Why is Kathy Bates’s nomination significant?
At 77, Kathy Bates made history as the oldest nominee for Outstanding Lead Actress, challenging age biases in the entertainment industry.
When does Matlock’s second season premiere?
The second season of Matlock is set to premiere on October 12, 2025.
