More than a decade after her show Harry’s Law was canceled, Kathy Bates feels vindicated by the success of her new series, Matlock, and stands by the sharp criticism she once leveled at NBC.
In 2012, NBC axed the legal drama Harry’s Law after two seasons. Despite consistently drawing nearly 10 million viewers per week, the network canceled the series, citing its failure to attract the younger demographics it coveted.
A year later, Bates publicly condemned the network at a Television Critics Association event. “I think they treated us like sh*t,” she said at the time. “They disrespected us. They disrespected our seven to 11 million viewers a week. And I think they’re getting what they deserve.”
In a recent interview with Variety, Bates affirmed she has no regrets about her past comments. She sees the success of Matlock as proof that stories centered on older characters are a worthy investment. Recalling the network’s reasoning, Bates said, “They said, ‘We can’t monetize on old people.’ And I felt like, ‘F**k you!'” With a symbolic brush of her shoulders, she added, “Success is the best revenge.”
At 77, Bates is now the oldest-ever nominee for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Matlock and is considered a frontrunner for the award. She called the record-setting nomination a “badge of honor.”
The actress, who already has an Oscar, two Emmys, and a Golden Globe, noted that this current wave of recognition feels different. “It’s just the serendipity of all of it,” Bates said. “I’ve never had any of this stuff happen before, where I’ve got five different designers sending dresses!”
