The original “Matlock,” which aired from 1986 to 1995, was a reimagining of the long-running “Perry Mason” legal drama. But instead of a hardnosed attorney at the center of its case-of-the-week format,

Bates said the retirement buzz was a 'misunderstanding' after she referred to 'Matlock' as her 'last dance' in an interview with the New York Times.

Following a disastrous, aborted production, which Bates refused to name, the actor called her representatives and told them it was time to pack it in. (For context, Bates describes her acting process as “Pain,

Kathy Bates says starring in the reboot of the procedural drama "Matlock" will be her swan song. In an interview with the New York Times, the Oscar-winning actress said she was ready to step out of the spotlight but was drawn to the series after she read the script. Viewers will have to enjoy it, as Bates said this will be her final acting gig.

Kathy Bates, who has considered retirement before, says she will end her award-winning acting career after CBS' new take on 'Matlock' runs its course.

Kathy Bates has stated that Matlock will be her last role. Why? The actress has explained why she'll be ready to retire once her time as Matty Matlock is over.