It was her breakthrough role in «Misery» after which Kathy Bates was suddenly thrust into stardom! 🤩👏 She built a drizzling career in both TV and film becoming one of the finest actresses of the era! 🤩🎭 However, life had other plans for her bringing severe health issues! 😨😬 For more – see the article! 👇
Kathy Bates, the iconic actress known for her powerful and often fierce roles in both film and television, has recently faced a major health challenge that has significantly impacted her life. The actress, who has been a fixture in Hollywood for decades, has been diagnosed with a chronic condition that has required her to make substantial lifestyle adjustments.
In the early 1970s, Bates moved to New York with dreams of becoming an actress. Reflecting on her journey, she recalls how she was never cast as the typical leading lady, but rather embraced roles that showcased her versatility as a character actor. “I was never the ingenue,” Bates shared. “I’ve always been a character actor. When I was younger, it was tough, not just for the lack of opportunities, but because you had to face how people perceived you.”
Her breakthrough came on Broadway in 1980, where she gained recognition for her role in Come Back to the Five and Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean. Although she missed out on several film adaptations of the roles she performed on stage, Bates’ career took a dramatic turn when, at the age of 42, she starred in Misery. Her portrayal of a psychotic fan earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress and catapulted her to stardom.
In an interview, Bates reflected on the roles that shaped her career, noting the disparity between the glamorous leading lady and the character parts she often played. “You’re either young and glamorous, destined for the lead role, or you’re the opposite—playing the friend, the villain, the outsider,” she said. “The roles with power often don’t align with femininity.”
As her career expanded, Bates also ventured into directing, helming episodes of notable television series such as Homicide: Life on the Street, NYPD Blue, Oz, and the critically acclaimed Six Feet Under.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Bates has faced personal health challenges. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2003, followed by breast cancer in 2012. After undergoing surgery for breast cancer, she also learned she had developed lymphedema, a condition that causes swelling in the arms.
In an effort to raise awareness, Bates became a spokesperson for the Lymphatic Education & Research Network, using her platform to educate others about the condition. In recent years, Bates has shared her journey of losing 80 pounds, a significant lifestyle change that has been crucial in managing her health.
To control her lymphedema, Bates wears compression sleeves to prevent her arms from swelling, especially during flights or any physical exertion. “I make sure to wear them when I fly or when I’m doing anything strenuous, or else my condition flares up,” she explained.
Despite these challenges, Bates continues to inspire with her resilience and determination, both in her professional and personal life. Her willingness to be open about her struggles has made her an advocate for those facing similar health battles.
