Kathy Bates isn’t annoyed that her age has been a major topic of conversation ahead of this weekend’s Primetime Emmy Awards.
The 77-year-old star of “Matlock” already broke a record as the oldest nominee for the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series category in July and could make history again if she takes home the trophy on Sunday.
And Bates said she is wearing the attention as a “badge of honor” in a new profile for Variety that was published Wednesday.
“I love that,” the Oscar winner said, adding that this surge of interest “feels totally different” from her prior triumphs.
“It’s true, first of all, and it’s a badge of honor,” she went on. “It’s just the serendipity of all of it.”
Sharing a fashionable perk that’s come with the fanfare, Bates added, “I’ve never had any of this stuff happen before, where I’ve got five different designers sending dresses!”
The CBS star told Variety that “Matlock” arrived at a pivotal time in her career, admitting she was “about ready to hang it up” before the role came along.
Describing her current era as her “redemption stage,” Bates told the outlet, “I finally feel like I’m who I am. I’ve fought my way through the rapids. I feel this is the best time of my life. I’m glad I stuck around for it!”