That being said, it is an utter delight to see Matlock star Kathy Bates’ reaction to being nominated for “Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama.” Shared straight from the set of Matlock ’s upcoming second season, you can see the Academy Award winner’s inspiring speech below:

The familiar faces amongst the 77th Emmy Award nominations are, in many cases, first-timers while others are making history for their contributions to the small screen’s latest season. Marquee names and shows alike have milestones to celebrate after Harvey Guillén and Brenda Song announced the nominees on Tuesday for the Sept.

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.