Sep
Kathy Bates Opens Up About Facing ‘Abject Terror’ in Leading the New Matlock
Kathy Bates is diving into new territory with CBS’ upcoming legal drama Matlock, where she takes on the role of Madeline Matlock, an enthusiastic attorney who comes out of retirement to join a prominent New York law firm. While the new Matlock shares its name with the beloved ’80s/’90s series starring Andy Griffith, this modern iteration offers a fresh take, blending nods to the original with a lively, contemporary twist.
In a recent chat with Entertainment Weekly, Bates discussed the excitement and challenges of stepping into this iconic role.
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: What drew you to Matlock?
KATHY BATES: It was the script and Jennie Urman’s vision. I really connect with Madeline Matlock, and the writing is exceptional. Unlike the episodic nature of the original Andy Griffith show, our series combines weekly cases with an overarching narrative that weaves through the season. The contemporary themes and relevance of the story were very appealing. The sense of doing something meaningful was a significant factor in my decision.
What’s your familiarity with the original Matlock series?
I wasn’t deeply familiar with the original series. While it was incredibly popular, I was working on stage in New York at that time and didn’t watch much TV. I was aware of the show, but I didn’t follow it closely.
How did you make the role of Madeline Matlock your own?
I delved deeply into my personal experiences and background to shape the character. I drew on everything I’ve learned over my 50-year career and applied it to this role. It involved exploring my own insecurities and regrets to understand Madeline’s emotional landscape. The writing resonated so closely with my own experiences that it often felt like Jennie was channeling my own thoughts.
What were the biggest challenges in preparing for this role?
The initial challenge was overcoming my fear of creating this character. I had to manage my anxiety and focus on the work rather than the pressure. I kept a quote from Dune about fear being the mind killer close by to remind myself to concentrate on the task at hand. Physically, I’m in great shape, having lost about a hundred pounds over the years, which has helped me stay active and energetic.
You share many intense scenes with Skye P. Marshall. What’s it like working with her?
Acting with Skye is like performing on a high wire—you always feel supported. She’s an exceptional actress, one of the best I’ve worked with, and I learn a lot from her. Despite her driven character on screen, Skye’s joyful presence is a delight. Working with her has been a fantastic experience, and I’m excited for audiences to see her in action.
How does the energy on set compare to your past projects?
This experience has been uniquely thrilling. It’s been a while since I worked in network television, and the passion and enthusiasm on set are palpable. Jennie Urman’s meticulous attention to detail and the cleverness of the writing have made this a refreshing and exciting project. While I’ve gained a lot from working with Ryan Murphy, this role feels new and invigorating, allowing me to portray a character who is an everyday person.
Matlock premieres on CBS on Sunday, September 22.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
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