Academy Award-Winning Actor Kathy Bates Brings the Classic Folktale ‘Stone Soup’ to Life for Storyline Online®

Kathy Bates reads for the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s children’s literacy program Storyline Online® / Photo courtesy of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation

Known for her unforgettable performances in Misery, Dolores Claiborne, Titanic and American Horror Story, and currently starring in Matlock, for which she was recently nominated for a Primetime Emmy for her role as ‘Madeline Matlock,’ Bates continues Storyline Online’s tradition of showcasing the world’s finest storytellers sharing tales that inspire, uplift and connect generations.

In Muth’s graceful and poetic retelling of the beloved folktale, three monks set out to show a village filled with anger and distrust the power of generosity and community—one stone, and one bowl of soup, at a time. With her signature depth and heart, Bates’ narration captures the soul of Stone Soup, reminding viewers that kindness and connection grow when they are shared.

“Stories bring us together,” said Bates. “They open our hearts, help us understand one another and remind us of the good in each one of us. Stone Soup is a story about community and compassion, messages we can never hear too often. I’m honored to share it with children and families everywhere through Storyline Online.”

Known for her extraordinary range and emotional depth, Bates brings nuance and authenticity to every word, embodying both the wisdom of the monks and the transformation of the villagers. Her reading beautifully underscores the story’s timeless lesson: that together, we have everything we need.

“Kathy Bates is a master storyteller, engaging, heartfelt, and utterly enchanting,” said Courtney B. Vance, President and Chairman of the Board of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation. “Her reading of Stone Soup radiates warmth and humanity during a time of year that calls us to reflection and gratitude. This book offers a wonderful lesson for children, and for all of us, and we’re so proud to welcome her to our Storyline Online family.”

As with all Storyline Online videos, Stone Soup comes with a free activity guide for parents and teachers, aligned with Common Core Standards, designed to promote reading comprehension, writing, social-emotional learning and art.

Produced by the nonprofit SAG-AFTRA Foundation, Kathy Bates joins the celebrated roster of Storyline Online readers, including Angela Bassett, Viola Davis, Rami Malek, Gary Oldman, Chris Pine, Jonathan Pryce, Meryl Streep, Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Yeoh and many more.

To watch Kathy Bates’ narration of Stone Soup and explore the entire library of free videos, visit storylineonline.net. Keep up with new videos by subscribing to Storyline Online on YouTube and following Storyline Online on Instagram, X and Facebook.