Hopkins and Bates are world-famous for disappearing into their characters. What it takes to pull that off is still a mystery to many, but the challenges facing Bates on "Matlock" are clear.

In 1992, the year after she won her Academy Award for “Misery,” Bates presented Anthony Hopkins with his Oscar for “Silence of the Lambs.” Related Stories.

A studied actor celebrating her biggest TV role ever at age 76, Kathy Bates recruited some legendary help to get ready for “Matlock.” In 1992, the year after she won her Academy Award for “Misery,” ...