Meaning: Kathy Bates, a renowned actress, captures the essence of her approach to selecting roles in this insightful quote. She expresses her desire to engage with characters that evoke empathy and understanding within her, while also providing a challenge that pushes her to explore different dimensions of acting. Bates' words reflect the depth of her commitment to her craft and her willingness to immerse herself in diverse roles that offer unique perspectives and experiences.

In her statement, Bates emphasizes the importance of finding roles with which she can connect on an emotional level. This highlights the significance of empathy in her portrayal of characters, suggesting that she seeks roles that allow her to genuinely understand and embody the experiences and emotions of the characters she portrays. By seeking empathy with her roles, Bates demonstrates a profound commitment to authenticity and emotional depth in her performances.

Moreover, Bates' mention of understanding and loving the roles she takes on indicates her desire to invest herself fully in the characters she portrays. This commitment to loving the roles she plays speaks to her passion for storytelling and her dedication to bringing characters to life in a compelling and authentic manner. It also suggests that she seeks roles that resonate with her on a personal level, allowing her to form a deep connection with the characters she embodies.

Furthermore, Bates' reference to the challenge of playing different types of roles and characters from diverse time periods underscores her versatility as an actress. By embracing roles that present a departure from the familiar, she demonstrates a willingness to push her boundaries and explore new artistic territories. This pursuit of diversity in roles reflects her desire for artistic growth and her openness to embracing the complexities of varied characters and narratives.

Bates' emphasis on seeking out different kinds of roles and characters aligns with her reputation as an actress known for her versatility and range. Throughout her career, she has portrayed an array of characters across various genres and time periods, showcasing her ability to inhabit diverse roles with authenticity and depth. From her iconic performance in "Misery" to her compelling portrayals in both film and television, Bates has consistently demonstrated her capacity to tackle challenging and multifaceted roles.

In conclusion, Kathy Bates' quote encapsulates her approach to selecting roles that resonate with her on an emotional level, while also presenting opportunities for growth and exploration as an actress. Her emphasis on empathy, understanding, and the pursuit of diverse and challenging roles offers valuable insights into her artistic ethos and the depth of her commitment to her craft. Bates' career exemplifies her dedication to embracing a wide spectrum of characters and narratives, solidifying her status as a versatile and esteemed actress in the industry.