Kathy Bates is one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses, known for her powerful performances across film, television, and stage. With an acting career spanning decades, Bates has established herself as a household name, earning numerous accolades and a loyal fan base. Alongside her incredible talent, many are curious about Kathy Bates’ net worth and how her career and personal journey have contributed to her success.
In this article, we’ll delve deep into Kathy Bate’s net worth, her life story, career milestones, and everything else you need to know about the iconic actress.
Quick Bio: Kathy Bates
| Full Name | Kathleen Doyle Bates |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 28, 1948 |
| Place of Birth | Memphis, Tennessee, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actress, Director |
| Famous Roles | Annie Wilkes (Misery), Evelyn Couch (Fried Green Tomatoes), Harriet Korn (Harry’s Law) |
| Years Active | 1971–Present |
| Spouse | Tony Campisi (married 1991–1997, divorced) |
| Children | None |
Early Life and Background
Kathy Bates was born on June 28, 1948, in Memphis, Tennessee. She was the youngest of three daughters born to Langdon Doyle Bates, a mechanical engineer, and Bertye Kathleen, a homemaker.
As a child, Bates showed a strong inclination toward performing arts, particularly acting. She pursued her dream by studying theater and eventually moved to New York City to kick-start her career. Despite facing initial struggles, her perseverance paid off, and she became one of the most acclaimed actresses in Hollywood.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of January 2025, Kathy Bates is 76 years old. She stands at 5 feet 3 inches (1.60 m) tall and has an approachable and relatable demeanor that has made her a fan favorite.
Bates has spoken openly about her health challenges, including her battle with ovarian cancer in 2003 and breast cancer in 2012. Her courage and resilience in overcoming these challenges have made her an inspiration to many.
Education
Kathy Bates attended White Station High School in Memphis, Tennessee. She later enrolled at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas, where she graduated in 1969 with a degree in Theater.
Her time at SMU was crucial in shaping her acting skills and passion for performing arts. After graduating, she moved to New York City to pursue her dreams of becoming a professional actress.
Her Father
Kathy Bates’ father, Langdon Doyle Bates, was a mechanical engineer. He was a supportive figure in her life, encouraging her to pursue her passion for acting.
While not much is publicly known about her father’s personal life, Kathy has spoken fondly of her upbringing in a close-knit family in Memphis.
Her Mother
Kathy Bates’ mother, Bertye Kathleen, was a homemaker who played a significant role in raising Kathy and her two older sisters. Bates often credits her mother for instilling in her a strong sense of determination and resilience, traits that have been vital in her acting career and personal life.
Children
Kathy Bates does not have children. Despite her decision not to have kids, she has been a loving aunt and a maternal figure to many in her personal and professional life.
Who Is Kathy Bates?
Kathy Bates is an award-winning actress and director who has delivered unforgettable performances in both film and television. She gained international fame for her role as Annie Wilkes in Misery (1990), which earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress.
Over the years, Bates has showcased her versatility in a wide range of roles, from the heartwarming Evelyn Couch in Fried Green Tomatoes to the hilarious Jo Bennett in The Office. Her performances in American Horror Story have further cemented her status as one of the finest actresses of her generation.
In addition to acting, Bates is also an accomplished director and a passionate advocate for cancer awareness and lymphedema research.
Movies
Kathy Bates has an extensive filmography with roles that span various genres, from psychological thrillers to heartfelt dramas and comedies. Here are some of her most notable movies:
| Movie | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Misery | 1990 | Annie Wilkes |
| Fried Green Tomatoes | 1991 | Evelyn Couch |
| Dolores Claiborne | 1995 | Dolores Claiborne |
| Titanic | 1997 | Molly Brown |
| Primary Colors | 1998 | Libby Holden |
| About Schmidt | 2002 | Roberta Hertzel |
| The Blind Side | 2009 | Miss Sue |
| Richard Jewell | 2019 | Barbara “Bobi” Jewell |
Kathy’s performance in Misery remains one of the most iconic in cinematic history, earning her critical acclaim and a loyal fan following.
Current Life
Kathy Bates continues to act and direct while also dedicating time to causes she’s passionate about. After surviving cancer twice, Bates has become an advocate for cancer awareness and has openly discussed her journey with lymphedema, a condition she developed after her cancer treatments.
Her work on American Horror Story has introduced her to a new generation of fans, and she remains one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood.
Bates also takes time to mentor younger actors and is a vocal supporter of women in the film industry.
Kathy Bates Net Worth
How Much is Kathy Bates Worth?
As of 2025, Kathy Bates’ net worth is estimated to be $20 million. Her wealth comes from her decades-long acting career, directing projects, and occasional endorsements.
Net Worth Breakdown
| Source | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| Acting (Movies, TV) | $15 million+ |
| Directing | $3 million+ |
| Endorsements | $1 million+ |
| Investments and Assets | $1 million+ |
Career Highlights
- Academy Award Win for Misery
Kathy Bates’ portrayal of Annie Wilkes remains one of her most defining roles, earning her critical acclaim and substantial earnings. - Television Success
Bates has starred in hit TV shows like Harry’s Law and American Horror Story, which have been both financially and critically rewarding. - Supporting Roles in Blockbusters
Films like Titanic and The Blind Side contributed to her financial success, as these movies became box office hits. - Real Estate
Bates has invested in real estate over the years, including a Los Angeles home that she sold for $2.6 million in 2017.
Conclusion
Kathy Bates is a true icon in Hollywood, with a career that spans decades and includes unforgettable performances in film and television. With a net worth of $20 million, she has achieved financial success while staying true to her craft and taking on roles that challenge and inspire her.
Her journey from a small-town girl in Memphis to an Academy Award-winning actress is a testament to her talent, determination, and resilience. In addition to her remarkable career, Kathy Bates continues to make a difference through her advocacy work, proving that her impact extends far beyond the screen.
This article has provided a comprehensive look at Kathy Bates’ life, career, and net worth. Whether you’re a fan of her work in Misery, Titanic, or American Horror Story, there’s no denying that Kathy Bates is a living legend in the entertainment industry.
