Kathy Bates talks “Matlock” role, ageism and her healthy lifestyle: “Every day feels like a miracle.”

Actor Kathy Bates Takes on New Role in CBS Legal Drama Series “Matlock”

Report by Kelsie Hoffman

Introduction

Actor Kathy Bates is taking on a new role in the CBS legal drama series, “Matlock,” at a time she said she considered going into semi-retirement. Bates revealed in an interview with “CBS Mornings” that at 76 she didn’t think an opportunity like this would happen.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• Goal 5: Gender Equality
• Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
• Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
• Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Role in “Matlock”

The series is inspired by the original hit TV show of the same name. Bates, who said she was considering not taking the role initially, plays a lawyer named Madeline “Matty” Matlock. Her character decides to rejoin the workforce, and uses her age and wit to get a job at a prestigious law firm.

Addressing Ageism and Health

Beyond tackling ageism in the workforce, Bates said she feels healthy after losing 100 pounds over the years. She mentioned that being healthy and receiving this role feels like a miracle.

Passion for Work

Passionate about her work, Bates sees herself as a “working actor.” She believes that the work itself is what matters and finds the accolades and excitement to be secondary.

Conclusion

Kathy Bates’ role in “Matlock” not only showcases her talent but also addresses important issues such as ageism and health. Her portrayal of a strong female character aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5, Goal 8, Goal 10, and Goal 16. By taking on this role, Bates challenges societal norms and inspires others to pursue their passions regardless of age.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article

   • SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

2. Specific Targets Based on the Article’s Content

   • Target 5.1: End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere
   • Target 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value
   • Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard
   • Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

   • Indicator 5.1.1: Whether or not legal frameworks are in place to promote, enforce, and monitor equality and non-discrimination on the basis of sex
   • Indicator 8.5.2: Unemployment rate, by sex, age, and persons with disabilities
   • Indicator 10.3.1: Proportion of population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months on the basis of a ground of discrimination prohibited under international human rights law
   • Indicator 3.5.2: Harmful use of alcohol, defined according to the national context as alcohol per capita consumption (aged 15 years and older) within a calendar year in liters of pure alcohol

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table

Source: cbsnews.com