A Historic Celebration of a Hollywood Icon
In a heartfelt and historic move, CBS has launched its first-ever “Birthday Salute” campaign, and the honor has gone to none other than the legendary actress Kathy Bates. On June 28, 2025, the network dedicated an entire day to celebrating Bates’ 77th birthday with fanfare, celebrity messages, musical tributes, and philanthropic gestures that reflected her influence not only in the entertainment industry but also in the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide.
This marks the first time CBS has curated a birthday event of this scale for any individual, and the selection of Kathy Bates—an actress known for her bold performances, resilience, and down-to-earth charisma—felt both fitting and overdue.
Why Kathy Bates?
Kathy Bates’ career spans over five decades and includes an Academy Award win for her unforgettable performance in Misery (1990), multiple Emmy Awards, Golden Globe accolades, and standout roles in both television and film. From Fried Green Tomatoes and Dolores Claiborne to recent appearances in American Horror Story, Feud, and the rebooted Matlock, Bates has remained a commanding and versatile force in Hollywood.
Beyond the screen, she is a survivor of cancer and an outspoken advocate for lymphatic health, having established the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN) awareness campaign. Her career, advocacy, and candid honesty have made her a beloved figure across generations.
The CBS Birthday Salute Format
CBS unveiled the birthday tribute as a multimedia celebration that unfolded across television, digital platforms, and social media. The “CBS Birthday Salute: Kathy Bates” featured a curated blend of:
- Celebrity video messages from friends and former co-stars.
- A musical tribute performed by the Los Angeles Gay Men’s Chorus.
- Special TV segments honoring her life and legacy.
- Behind-the-scenes tributes from CBS showrunners and production staff.
- A philanthropic donation made in her name to causes close to her heart.
- Promotional material for her upcoming return to Matlock, rebooted on CBS and Paramount+.
This thoughtful, dynamic tribute allowed fans, fellow actors, and colleagues to honor Kathy in a way that mirrored her authenticity and breadth of work.
Celebrity Messages: Stars Speak from the Heart
Several of Kathy’s closest friends and collaborators appeared in pre-recorded tribute messages that aired throughout the day. Among them:
- Jason Ritter, who shared memories of working with her and expressed admiration for her fearless performances.
- Brooke Shields, recalling their off-screen friendship and Kathy’s strength in overcoming personal health battles.
- Melissa McCarthy and Ben Falcone, who contributed a humorous yet emotional segment, highlighting Bates’ comedic timing and humility.
- Billy Bob Thornton, who spoke warmly about their longstanding friendship and her ability to elevate every scene she’s in.
These testimonials were raw, unscripted, and full of affection—mirroring the respect and admiration the industry holds for Bates.
A Musical Homage: The Gay Men’s Chorus of L.A.
In one of the most moving moments of the tribute, the Los Angeles Gay Men’s Chorus performed a medley of songs inspired by Bates’ most iconic roles. The performance included a rendition of “You Are So Beautiful” dedicated to her resilience, strength, and contribution to the LGBTQ+ community, where Bates is seen as an ally and icon.
The musical salute added emotional depth to the tribute, capturing both her dramatic gravitas and her enduring warmth.
CBS Morning Hosts Join the Festivities
CBS anchors Gayle King and Vladimir Duthiers led a special segment on CBS Mornings, which revisited Kathy’s groundbreaking performances over the years. The duo discussed her cultural impact, especially her portrayal of strong, unconventional female characters who defy Hollywood stereotypes.
During the segment, archival footage was aired from early interviews, award show wins, and on-set moments that provided fans with a nostalgic journey through her career.
A Gift That Gives Back: Philanthropy and Awareness
One of the defining moments of the day was CBS’ $10,000 donation to a health nonprofit associated with Bates’ advocacy work. The donation went to the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN), an organization with which Bates has worked for years to raise awareness about lymphedema—a chronic condition she lives with after cancer treatment.
This charitable act underlined Bates’ legacy not only as a performer but also as a humanitarian and advocate.
Fans Join the Celebration
In addition to celebrity tributes and official programming, CBS encouraged fans to join the celebration by submitting video messages, artwork, and birthday wishes. A fan montage aired during prime time, featuring tributes from across the country. One young artist recreated a digital painting of Annie Wilkes (her role in Misery) holding a birthday cake, while another fan shared a heartfelt story about how Kathy’s honesty in interviews helped them navigate their own health struggles.
The tribute wasn’t just a corporate gesture—it became a community event that highlighted the deep connection between Bates and her audience.
The Return of Matlock: A Perfect Birthday Preview
CBS strategically used the birthday tribute to build momentum for Bates’ return in the upcoming reboot of Matlock, premiering this fall on both CBS and Paramount+. In this modern take on the classic legal drama, Bates stars as a seasoned, brilliant attorney navigating high-profile cases with her trademark blend of empathy and tenacity.
During the tribute, CBS aired a behind-the-scenes sneak peek of Matlock, featuring interviews with cast and crew who praised her leadership and presence on set. Bates described the opportunity as “an exciting new chapter,” reminding fans that she’s far from done making waves.
CBS and the Future of “Birthday Salutes”
The network’s launch of its first-ever “Birthday Salute” represents a bold, personal move in today’s fast-moving media landscape. By honoring Kathy Bates in this way, CBS signals a willingness to deepen its emotional connection with viewers and to elevate actors whose careers have defined genres, inspired fans, and broken barriers.
Executives hinted at plans to make these birthday salutes an annual tradition, focusing on icons who have left a significant mark on CBS programming and beyond. Kathy Bates, as the inaugural honoree, sets a high standard and a deeply heartfelt precedent.
Public Response and Social Media Buzz
The internet lit up with praise as fans shared clips, photos, and reactions to the tribute using the hashtag #KathyBates77. Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok were flooded with throwback scenes from her most powerful performances and warm birthday messages from fans of all ages.
Several celebrities outside the CBS roster chimed in as well, with well-wishers including Sarah Paulson, Angela Bassett, and Ryan Murphy posting public messages of love and celebration.
Critics also responded positively. Entertainment journalists hailed the tribute as “one of the most genuine celebrity honors in years” and applauded CBS for spotlighting a woman who has consistently prioritized craft over glamour.
Final Thoughts: A Tribute Deserved, A Legacy Celebrated
Kathy Bates has never chased fame or played by the rules of Hollywood, and yet she has quietly, confidently, and repeatedly stolen the spotlight. The CBS Birthday Salute was more than a tribute—it was a testament to endurance, artistry, and the connection between star and viewer that can only be earned through honesty, integrity, and consistency.
As she turns 77, Bates continues to inspire not just as a performer, but as a fighter, advocate, and pioneer. CBS’s tribute was a well-deserved spotlight on one of Hollywood’s most beloved and enduring talents. Whether on the big screen, in the courtroom on Matlock, or in the hearts of fans, Kathy Bates remains a towering figure—proof that greatness ages not with time, but with grace.