Kathy Bates: Embracing Second Chances in The Waterboy and Matlock
Kathy Bates recently shared a story about how she almost missed out on the opportunity to star in the 1998 sports comedy, The Waterboy, because she initially didn't recognize Adam Sandler's name. Bates, an Emmy and Oscar winner, revealed that she tossed the script in the trash after reading just twelve pages. However, her niece rescued it and reminded her of Sandler's popular "The Chanukah Song." Bates decided to give the script another chance and ended up having a great time working with Sandler on the film.
In The Waterboy, Bates portrayed Mama Boucher, the protective mother of Sandler's socially awkward character, Bobby Boucher. Despite her initial hesitation, Bates found the experience of working with Sandler to be enjoyable and described him as a genius. The film marked a turning point in Sandler's career, with audiences beginning to appreciate his comedic talents.
Bates also shared a similar experience with the legal drama series, Matlock, where she almost turned down the role without reading the entire script. However, a friend encouraged her to finish reading it, and she was impressed by the twist at the end. Bates appreciated that the series had substance and tackled real-world issues, which drew her to the character of Madeline Matlock.
Matlock follows Bates' character as she navigates the legal world with her clever strategies to win cases and uncover injustices. Bates expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work on the show, especially during challenging times in the industry. She emphasized the importance of having a job to go to and being able to create something meaningful.
In conclusion, Kathy Bates' initial reluctance to take on roles in The Waterboy and Matlock highlights the importance of giving opportunities a second chance. Her experiences with these projects ultimately led to rewarding and fulfilling experiences, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress.