On Tuesday, the Matlock star was announced as a 2025 Emmy nominee for Best Lead Actress in a Drama, becoming the oldest performer ever nominated in category at age 77. With the nomination, Bates surpasses the record previously held by Angela Lansbury, who was 70 when she received her final nod in Murder, She Wrote in 1996.

Following an Emmy nomination for her role in 'Matlock,' Kathy Bates is now the oldest nominee for lead actress in a drama series.

Kathy Bates, 77, has become the oldest woman Nominated In the Lead Drama Actress category for playing the titular role in the CBS hit series Matlock. She beats the previous record set by Imelda Staunton, who was nominated in 2024 for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for playing Queen Elizabeth II in Netflix’s The Crown.