The Oscar-winning actress recalls nearly passing on the 1998 comedy before discovering Adam Sandler’s humor and calling the film experience “brilliant.”
Kathy Bates has revealed that she almost turned down her role in the 1998 sports comedy The Waterboy after initially dismissing the script and not knowing much about its star, Adam Sandler.
Speaking in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the 77-year-old actress said she received the script without any context and initially struggled to connect with the story. After reading a portion of it, she considered it “ridiculous” and threw it away.
However, the project took an unexpected turn when her niece retrieved the script from the trash and urged her to reconsider. The family member, familiar with Sandler’s rising popularity in comedy, encouraged Bates to take a second look.
At first, Bates admitted she still did not recognize Sandler, but after learning more about his work, including his comedic music and sketches, her perspective began to change.
After revisiting the script, Bates decided to take the role for the sake of her niece. That decision ultimately led to one of her most enjoyable film experiences.
Reflecting on the production, she praised Sandler’s talent, describing him as “brilliant” and a “genius,” and said the set atmosphere was filled with humor and creativity.
The Waterboy, directed by Frank Coraci, featured Adam Sandler as Bobby Boucher Jr., a socially awkward waterboy who becomes a football star. The film also starred Fairuza Balk, Henry Winkler, Jerry Reed, and Blake Clark, and went on to become a major box office success.
Bates’ story highlights how a role she nearly rejected became one of the most memorable collaborations of her career.