Kathy Bates Announces Retirement After CBS' Matlock This Is My Last Dance

beloved actress and Hollywood icon Cathy Bates known for her decades long career and iconic roles across film television and Stage has announced her retirement after the upcoming season of CBS Matlock in an emotional statement Bates referred to the project as her last dance in the entertainment industry confirming her decision to step away from acting after a storied career baates 76 currently stars in the CBS reboot of Matlock where she plays the titular role of meline Matlock a brilliant yet unconventional attorney the series which revives the popular 1980s legal drama originally starring Andy Griffith has been well received by audiences bat's portrayal of the sharp-witted lawyer has earned her critical praise as well as bringing a fresh energy to the role yet despite the show's success Bates revealed that the series will Mark her final appearance on screen in a recent interview with variety Bates expressed gratitude for her career and explained her decision to retire I've been incredibly fortunate to have a long fulfilling career filled with wonderful projects and amazing people but after 50 years in this business I know it's time to pass the torch bat said Matlock has been a special experience for me and it feels right to end my journey with this character this is my last dance the decision comes after years of speculation about bat's future in the industry as she has openly discussed Health struggles and a desire for a quieter Life The Academy award-winning actress has battled lymphadema a condition that developed following her breast cancer treatment and has been vocal about prioritizing her well-being despite these challenges Bates has continued to work consistently delivering memorable performances in projects like American Horror Story Richard Jewel and disjointed her career which spans more than five decades includes an Academy Award for best actress for her chilling performance in misery 1990 and multiple Emmy Awards for her television work Bates has become known for her versatility moving seamlessly between genres from horror to drama to Comedy whether playing a strong willed Southern matriarch in fried green tomatoes a mysterious lawyer in the practice or a heartbreaking friend in Titanic Bates has brought depth and Humanity to each of her roles as Bates prepares to say goodbye to acting her fans and colleagues have begun celebrating her Legacy co-stars from Matlock and other projects have praised her professionalism kindness and talent Kathy is a once-in- aif Time performer working with her has been an absolute privilege said Matlock shoner Jenny Snyder man we'll all miss her on set but we're excited to help her bring this chapter of her career to a close while Bates has not announced any formal plans for her retirement she mentioned that she looks forward to spending more time with family and pursuing personal passions I wanted take a step back enjoy life at a slower pace and maybe focus on things that I haven't had the time for while I was working Bates shared I'm not ruling out involvement in Creative projects behind the scenes but as far as acting goes this is the end of the road fans of Bates will still have time to catch her on screen as the latest season of Matlock is set to air in early 2025 however the fairwell is Bittersweet for many who have admired her for years social media tributes of pedon with fans reminiscing about their favorite Cathy bat's performances and thanking her for the memorable characters she's brought to life as Bates bids farewell she leaves behind a body of work that has shaped Hollywood and inspired countless actors I've had the time of my life Bates concluded in her interview but it's time to move on I'm ready for whatever comes next end of an era with her decision to step back from a spotlight Kathy bat's retirement signals the end of an era in entertainment her remarkable career will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of actors and her presence will be sorely missed by both fans and colleagues alike