10 fun and interesting Kathy Bates facts

1. Kathy Bates' Acting Career Began in 1971

Kathy Bates' acting career began in 1971 with the film "Taking Off", in which she played the role of "Bobo Bates". This was the start of a long and successful career for Kathy, who has since gone on to star in a variety of films, television shows, and stage productions. Her performance in "Taking Off" was well-received, and it helped to launch her career in the entertainment industry. She has since been nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in the 1990 film "Misery".

Also → William Hurt: Missed 'Misery' Oscar Noms

2. I was relieved not to get the Janet Wood role

Kathy Bates had the opportunity to audition for the role of Janet Wood in the 1976 television series 'Three's Company', but ultimately the part went to Joyce DeWitt. Despite the disappointment of not getting the role, Kathy was actually relieved, as she had no desire to take on the part.

Also → Vera Farmiga: From Understudy to Star

3. Kathy Bates Makes Her Broadway Debut

Kathy Bates made her Broadway debut in 1980 with the play "Goodbye Fidel". The play was written by Murray Schisgal and directed by Jack Hofsiss, and it was a critical success. It ran for over a month at the Longacre Theatre in New York City, and Bates' performance was praised by critics. She received a Theatre World Award for her role in the play, which marked the beginning of her successful career on the stage.

Also → Gary Oldman: Oscar-Winning Actor, Director & Writer

4. Iconic Actress of the 1990s

Kathy Bates' career took off in the 1990s with her iconic performance in the psychological thriller "Misery". Her portrayal of the deranged fan Annie Wilkes earned her both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Actress, cementing her place in Hollywood history. Since then, she has gone on to appear in numerous films and television shows, including her Emmy-winning role in the FX series "American Horror Story".

Also → Salma Hayek: Emmy-nominated actress, producer, and director

5. Kathy Bates becomes first woman to win Best Actress Academy Award

Kathy Bates made history in 1990 when she became the first woman to win a Best Actress Academy Award for her performance in the thriller/horror film “Misery”. Her portrayal of the deranged fan Annie Wilkes earned her critical acclaim and the prestigious award, cementing her place in Hollywood history.

Also → Jessica Tandy: An Accomplished Actress

6. Director to be Reckoned With

Kathy Bates has established herself as a formidable director in the 1990s, having directed episodes of some of the most acclaimed television shows of the time, such as "NYPD Blue", "Homicide: Life on the Street", "Six Feet Under", "Oz" and "Everwood". Her work on these shows has earned her a reputation as a director to be reckoned with.

Also → Emmy-Winning Actress Laura Linney

7. The Unsinkable Molly Brown

Kathy Bates starred in the 1997 James Cameron blockbuster "Titanic" as Molly Brown. The movie was an unprecedented success, grossing an astonishing $1.8 billion at the box office worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of all time. Bates' performance as the unsinkable Molly Brown was widely praised, and the film went on to win 11 Academy Awards.

Also → Matt Dillon: Early Career Highlights

8. Kathy Bates Wins Emmy for Guest Appearance on "Two and Half Men"

Kathy Bates made history in 2012 when she won her first Emmy Award for her guest appearance as Charlie's ghost in the hit comedy series "Two and Half Men". After being nominated nine times, Bates finally earned the Outstanding Guest Appearance in a Comedy Series, Primetime Emmy Award for her performance. This was a major milestone for Bates, who had been a long-time contender for the award.

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9. Cancer Survivor

In 2003, Kathy Bates was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, a devastating blow that she courageously fought against. Nine years later, in 2012, she was dealt another blow when she discovered she had breast cancer. Despite the odds, Kathy Bates has emerged a triumphant cancer survivor, a testament to her strength and determination.

Also → "Homeland" Wins 2012 Emmy Awards

10. Kathy Bates Joins Cast of American Horror Story for Third Season

Kathy Bates is an acclaimed actress who has been nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and an Emmy. In March 2013, it was confirmed that she would be joining the cast of the popular television series, "American Horror Story," for its third season. Bates is set to play a pivotal role in the show, which has been praised for its unique blend of horror, drama, and suspense. With her addition to the cast, fans of the show can look forward to an even more thrilling season.