Kathy Bates, the iconic actress known for her roles in films such as Misery and Titanic, has undergone a remarkable transformation in her health and fitness, shedding an impressive 100 pounds. At 76 years old, Bates reflects on her incredible journey that has allowed her to feel better physically and mentally, making her work life significantly easier.
In a recent interview at the Paleyfest screening of Matlock, Bates opened up about how her weight loss has positively impacted her career, allowing her to return to the sets she loves.
Kathy Bates’ Weight Loss Journey: A Transformation That Took Years
The journey wasn’t quick, but it was a powerful one for Kathy Bates. She started her transformation in earnest around 2017 after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The diagnosis served as a wake-up call, prompting the star to make changes to her lifestyle for the sake of her health.
Her weight loss was a gradual process. Over seven years, she managed to lose around 80 pounds through consistent diet and exercise.
The last 20 pounds were lost with the help of Ozempic, a medication originally designed for diabetes but also known for its weight loss effects. Despite this medical aid, Bates emphasizes that her transformation wasn’t without its struggles, especially during the pandemic.
It wasn’t easy, but she pushed through and made healthy choices that would benefit her for the rest of her life.
How Weight Loss Impacted Her Work and Health
Bates is now in a much healthier place, and it shows. In her interview, she shared how much easier her work has become after the weight loss. She no longer struggles to keep up with the physical demands of being on set.
“When I was so heavy in Harry’s Law, I had to sit down in between every take, and it was awful,” she reflected on her time filming the 2011 drama series. This experience was tough for her, but it pushed her to change her habits and take her health seriously.
Now, she feels like a new woman—healthier, more energetic, and free of the physical pain that once plagued her. She shared that even though she sometimes feels tired, it’s a far cry from the soreness she used to experience.
“I can move, I can breathe, I can have fun, I’m not sore,” Bates explained. This newfound energy has made her career even more enjoyable, and she’s grateful for the opportunity to continue working and doing what she loves.
At 76, Bates never imagined she’d experience such a transformation, especially so late in her career. But her commitment to her health has proven to be a “magnificent experience.” She enjoys her work now more than ever, and the physical transformation has helped her achieve a better quality of life.
The Role of Ozempic and Lifestyle Changes
Bates’ weight loss story isn’t just about diet and exercise—it also involved the use of Ozempic. The medication played a key role in helping her shed the final 20 pounds.
Ozempic, originally prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes, has become a popular weight loss aid in recent years due to its appetite-suppressing qualities. For Bates, it was a tool that helped her maintain steady progress toward her goals.
However, she remains clear that the medication wasn’t a magic fix—it was her determination, combined with healthy lifestyle changes, that made the difference.
Her approach involved a lot of patience and perseverance, especially as she struggled during the pandemic. It wasn’t easy, but Bates found the strength to keep going. “It’s very hard to say you’ve had enough,” she explained, acknowledging the mental and emotional challenges that came with the journey.
A New Chapter: Kathy Bates Looking Forward to the Future
Now that she’s in a healthier place, Bates feels like she’s ready to start a new chapter in her life. According to insiders, she’s considering dating again, hoping to find someone special. Following her divorce from Tony Campisi in 1997, Bates has focused mainly on her career.
But now that she feels healthier and more confident in her body, she’s open to new possibilities in her personal life.
As for her career, Bates isn’t retiring anytime soon. In fact, she recently won Best Actress in a Drama Series at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards for her portrayal of Madeline Matlock in the Matlock reboot.
Bates was thrilled by the recognition, attributing much of her success to the talented team she works with on set. She appreciates the love and experience from everyone involved in the production, noting how grateful she is for the opportunity to continue doing what she loves.
Kathy Bates’ Health Transformation: More Than Just Weight Loss
While losing 100 pounds is a significant achievement, Kathy Bates emphasizes that her health transformation goes beyond the numbers. It’s about feeling strong, energetic, and capable.
She can now enjoy activities that were once difficult, like standing for long hours and moving freely on set. But it’s also about her renewed outlook on life—Bates is now focused on enjoying the present and looking forward to what’s next, both in her personal life and career.
As she continues to shine in her acting career, Kathy Bates’ story serves as an inspiration to others. It’s a reminder that it’s never too late to make changes for the better. With hard work, determination, and the right mindset, anyone can achieve their health and wellness goals—no matter their age.
FAQs
How did Kathy Bates lose 100 pounds?
Kathy Bates lost 100 pounds over seven years through a combination of diet, exercise, and the help of the medication Ozempic. Her journey began after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which served as the catalyst for her health transformation.
What role did Ozempic play in Kathy Bates’ weight loss?
Ozempic, a medication used to manage type 2 diabetes, helped Kathy Bates shed the final 20 pounds of her 100-pound weight loss. It works by suppressing appetite, which assisted Bates in managing her weight more effectively.
How has Kathy Bates’ weight loss affected her career?
Kathy Bates has shared that her weight loss has made working on set much easier. She no longer experiences the same physical discomfort she once did, allowing her to perform her job more effectively. The weight loss has also given her more energy and confidence, improving her overall well-being.
What is next for Kathy Bates after her weight loss?
After her weight loss, Kathy Bates is looking forward to new possibilities in her personal life, including dating. She is also excited about continuing her career and recently received recognition at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards for her role in the Matlock reboot.
