Kathy Bates is returning to TV in CBS’s new “Matlock,” captivating fans with her role as attorney Madeline “Matty” Matlock. At 76, Bates appears significantly thinner, sparking online discussion. Some fans expressed concern: “Love Kathy to death but honey, you can’t lose that much weight after a certain age.” Others were shocked, saying, “Wow. I didn’t recognize her.”

Bates teased her role, stating, “Matlock has an agenda that not everyone knows about. I love playing all those different notes.” Despite her age, Bates is thrilled with this career milestone, noting, “‘I’ve never thought at my age I’d be playing such a wonderful role and for network, which so many people are going to see.”

In her role, Bates leverages her character’s age and life experience to connect with people genuinely, avoiding reliance on technology. Reflecting humorously on her own invisibility, Bates shared, “Now, I wave my arms frantically to get noticed,” joking that it might be due to her age or weight loss.