UPDATE: Kathy Bates, star of CBS’s Matlock, has delivered a powerful message to critics of her weight loss, declaring, “F**k you, it was the Ozempic!” This urgent statement comes amidst a growing conversation about her health journey, which she candidly shared in a recent interview with Variety.
Bates, who has faced significant health struggles over the years, explained that her weight loss journey began after a diagnosis of diabetes. She gradually shed pounds to improve her overall health, influenced by a family history of the disease. The actress revealed that while medication like Ozempic was crucial in losing the final 15 to 20 pounds, her transformation is deeply personal and multi-faceted.
“The emotional impact has been overwhelming,” Bates said, recalling a moment where she tried on a new dress, initially doubting it would fit. “I just started crying and crying,” she shared, highlighting the profound emotional release tied to her physical transformation. This moment symbolizes the shedding of “that armor” she had used to shield herself in the past.
In her heartfelt remarks, Bates emphasized that her sense of self-worth and “redemption” is not tied solely to her weight. “I finally feel like I’m who I am. I’ve fought my way through the rapids,” she expressed. Bates noted that this period of her life is the best she has experienced, coinciding with a career resurgence as she takes on the lead role in Matlock.
The 75-year-old actress recently made history as the oldest-ever Emmy nominee for outstanding drama actress, calling it a “badge of honor.” She remarked on the serendipitous timing of her health improvements aligning with her professional success, stating, “The juxtaposition of getting healthy and then this show coming along is just unbelievable.”
Bates concluded her interview with a sense of gratitude, stating, “It’s just the serendipity of all of it. I’ve never had any of this stuff happen before, where I’ve got five different designers sending dresses!”
This story resonates beyond the screen, touching on universal themes of health, resilience, and self-acceptance. As Kathy Bates continues to inspire with her journey, her bold response to critics serves as a reminder of the complexities behind personal transformations. Stay tuned for more updates on her inspiring journey and career developments.
