In sad news, Kathy Bates shared in September 2024 that she will retire from acting.
Speaking to the New York Times, Kathy revealed that the reboot of Matlock – set to be released on September 22 – will be the last project she ever acts in.
“This is my last dance,” the 76-year-old said before adding the reason behind her retirement; she’s ‘exhausted’ and an unnamed movie shoot ‘soured’ acting for her.
In honour of the Oscar, Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner, we’ve rounded up the best Kathy Bates movies and where to watch them in Australia.
Titanic
The Oscar-winning and box-office smash Titanic, directed by James Cameron, chronicles the ill-fated voyage of the RMS Titanic.
The film follows Leonardo DiCaprio’s Jack and Kate Winslet’s Rose, two passengers from different social classes, who fall in love aboard the doomed ship.
Kathy plays Molly Brown, a wealthy, outspoken socialite and, with her performance, brings warmth and humour to the otherwise tragic film.
Where to watch: Disney+.
Stream Titanic now on Disney Plus from $13.99/mth.
Misery
Based on the Stephen King novel of the same name, Misery follows Paul Sheldon, a famous author who, after a car accident, is kidnapped by his “number one fan” Annie Wilkes.
Kathy plays Annie and her chilling portrayal of the obsessive, unhinged fan earned her widespread acclaim, culminating in an Academy Award for Best Actress.
Her performance is often regarded as one of the most iconic villain roles in film history, blending terrifying unpredictability with moments of vulnerability.
Where to watch: Rent or buy on Amazon.
Richard Jewell
Directed by Clint Eastwood, Richard Jewell is a biographical drama about the 1996 Atlanta Olympics bombing and the subsequent investigation.
The film focuses on Richard Jewell, a security guard who discovered the bomb and initially saved lives but was later wrongfully accused of planting it.
Kathy plays Bobi Jewell, Richard’s devoted mother, whose life was upended by the media frenzy and FBI scrutiny.
Her moving portrayal of a mother’s anguish and fierce defence of her son earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Where to watch: Netflix Australia and/or Foxtel Now.
Stream Richard Jewell now on Foxtel Now from $35/mth, with a 10-day free trial.
Primary Colours
Primary Colours follows the presidential campaign of Jack Stanton, a charismatic but flawed Southern governor, and offers a satirical look at American politics.
Based on a novel by Joe Klein, Kathy portrays Libby Holden, a fiercely loyal and eccentric political operative hired to manage crises and cover-ups for the campaign.
Kathy’s dynamic performance, balancing sharp wit with emotional vulnerability, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Where to watch: Rent or buy on Amazon.
Valentine’s Day
This ensemble comedy stars everyone – from Kathy to Julia Roberts to Ashton Kutcher to Taylor Swift – and weaves together multiple interconnecting stories of love and relationships, all set on Valentine’s Day.
Kathy has a smaller role as Susan, a TV news executive, but whenever she is on screen, she really shows off her comedy chops.
Where to watch: Binge.
Stream Valentine’s Day now on Binge from $10/mth, with a 7-day free trial.
Midnight in Paris
Midnight in Paris is a whimsical romantic comedy that follows Gil, a disillusioned writer who mysteriously travels back in time to 1920s Paris each night.
There, he meets famous literary and artistic figures from the era.
Kathy plays Gertrude Stein, a real-life influential writer and art collector, who becomes a mentor to Gil and offers guidance on his novel.
Where to watch: Rent or buy on Amazon.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Alternating between two timelines, Fried Green Tomatoes is a heartwarming drama that tells two stories of friendship and empowerment in the Deep South.
The film follows Evelyn, a dissatisfied housewife who forms a life-changing bond with Ninny, an elderly woman recounting the story of two friends, Idgie and Ruth, in the 1930s.
Kathy plays Evelyn, whose journey from insecurity to self-confidence anchors the film’s present-day narrative. Her performance was universally praised for its humour and emotional depth.
Where to watch: SBS On Demand.
