Fans Inspired as Kathy Bates Reflects on Depression and Beating Cancer

Oscar-winning actress Kathy Bates opened up in January 2025 about her lifelong struggle with clinical depression and her journey through multiple cancers. The feature appeared in a major profile that praised her resilience and reclaimed passion for work.

Bates, now 76, said she has carried depression since childhood. She described it as a constant undercurrent. “There are times when I don’t want to get out of bed,” she said . For her, mental health has been as powerful a challenge as cancer.

She survived ovarian cancer in 2003 and breast cancer in 2012. The latter required a double mastectomy, which led to chronic lymphedema. She later lost 100 pounds and adopted healthier habits to manage diabetes and swelling.

In her new profile, Bates said that after years of struggle, she feels renewed by her lead role in Matlock. Cast members and directors praised her energy, focus, and craft, despite the physical and emotional hurdles she still faces at age 76.

Her work has helped her mental health, she said. Episodes of Matlock energize and fulfill her. She added—half-joking—that she might work until age 81 if given the chance .

Bates also described how she learned to manage depression. She said therapy and medication helped her face dark moments. She credited her family and professional support system for keeping her grounded .

She said her father once attempted suicide, and that struggle influenced her mental health awareness. She described depression like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde—it can hit suddenly on good days.

Bates frames her health journey as ongoing. She advocates for self-care, listening to one’s body, and seeking help early. She also uses her platform to speak about lymphedema, cancer, diabetes, and mental health.

Fans and critics responded with admiration. Her openness about mental illness, weight loss, and chronic disease resonated deeply. Many said they appreciated that she models honesty and self-advocacy.

Medical experts agree that her story offers insight into mind-body connection. Long-term illness and depression often intersect. Treatment through medical care, lifestyle change, and therapy can help patients recover hope and function.

As of early 2025, Kathy Bates continues to lead and produce Matlock, balancing work with health routines. She is planning to direct an episode and to keep working at her own pace.

Kathy Bates’s profile is a reminder that strength includes vulnerability. By opening up about depression and survival, she helps reduce stigma and encourages others to care for both body and mind.