Kathy Bates recently reflected on the cancellation of Harry’s Law and how it shaped her career. In a new interview, she said NBC canceled the series despite strong ratings, frustrating her with the network’s treatment of its loyal audience. She added that the setback pushed her to pursue new opportunities, leading to her celebrated return on Matlock.
Kathy Bates opens up about Harry’s Law cancellation
In a 2025 interview with Variety, Bates discussed her career highs and lows, including how the NBC series Harry’s Law ended despite strong ratings.
David E. Kelley created the show, which aired from 2011 to 2012, with Bates featuring as Harriet Korn, a lawyer who launched her own criminal defense firm. The series drew close to 10 million weekly viewers, but NBC canceled it after two seasons because it underperformed with younger demographics. Bates admitted the decision left her heartbroken, though she initially debated whether to speak out.
A year later, at the Television Critics Association press tour, Bates publicly addressed the cancellation. She said at the time, “I think they treated us like shit. They kicked us to the curb. They disrespected us. They disrespected our seven to 11 million viewers a week. And I think they’re getting what they deserve.”
Bates now revealed that NBC executives told her, “We can’t monetize on old people.” Her reaction was blunt: “I felt like, ‘F— you!’”
The actress explained that her frustration came from the network dismissing a loyal audience base. Harry’s Law had performed well with older viewers but did not align with the network’s demographic goals. Bates recalled how difficult it was to accept that success with audiences was not enough to save the show.
Now, with her CBS series Matlock thriving, Bates considers her current career a form of redemption. The show’s first season reached nearly 16 million viewers across broadcast and streaming. It also earned her a Critics Choice Award and an Emmy nomination, making her the oldest-ever nominee for outstanding drama actress. Bates acknowledged the irony, stating, “Success is the best revenge.”
At 77, she leverages her influence to protect her projects and ensure productions benefit local crews in Los Angeles. Moreover, it seems her experience with Harry’s Law continues to shape how she navigates her career today.