5 Kathy Bates’ Best Horror Projects, Ranked By IMDb
From spine-chilling villains to complex characters with dark pasts, Kathy Bates has secured her place as “it girl” of the horror genre.
With a career spanning decades, Kathy Bates has brought to life some of the most unforgettable characters in cinema. She embodies her characters, finding humanity (however twisted) in even the most monstrous roles.
Ready to dive into the darker side of this incredible actress? Let's count down 5 of her most terrifying horror projects, ranked by IMDb.
5. ‘My Best Friend Is A Vampire’ (1987)
IMDb score: 6.0/10.
Role: Helen Blake.
Before becoming an Academy Winner, Kathy Bates appeared in this quirky horror-comedy. My Best Friend Is A Vampire follows Jeremy, your average teenager whose life takes a turn after becoming a vampire. As he deals with his new life, he must also dodge a pair of vampire hunters who couldn't be more comically incompetent if they tried.
4. ‘The Stand’ (1994)
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IMDb score: 7.1/10.
Role: Rae Flowers.
In this Stephen King adaptation, Bates plays Rae Flowers. The Stand is the ultimate showdown between good and evil.
Fun fact: Rae Flowers was a role that was rewritten specifically for Kathy Bates by Stephen King himself.
3. ‘Dolores Claiborne’ (1995)
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IMDb score: 7.4/10.
Role: Dolores Claiborne.
When a housekeeper gets accused of murdering her employer, her daughter rushes home to uncover the truth. Bates absolutely owns the title role. Dolores Claiborne might not have traditional horror elements, but the real-life monsters are scarier than any supernatural threat.
2. ‘Misery’ (1990)
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IMDb score: 7.8/10.
Role: Annie Wilkes.
In Misery, Bates plays Annie Wilkes, a super-fan who “rescues” her favorite author after a car crash. Bates brings such a terrifying energy to this role that you'll think twice about meeting your heroes. Her smile-to-psycho transitions will give you chills for days.
1. ‘American Horror Story’ (2011-present)
IMDb score: 7.9/10.
Roles: multiple characters.
Bates is a total chameleon in this hit anthology, slipping into wildly different roles across several seasons. From the cruel Madame LaLaurie in “Coven” to the heartbreaking bearded lady Ethel in “Freak Show”, she shows off her incredible range. She's also knocked it out of the park as hotel manager Iris, the actress Agnes and the mysterious Ms. Mead.
No matter the character, Bates brings her signature intensity that makes AHS a must-watch for horror fans.
