In the late '70s, Kate was married to the abusive Curtis Reed and had two children with him, Austin and Billie. Kate found herself growing closer to Dr. Bill Horton and the two had an affair. Kate got pregnant. When Curtis found out about the affair and pregnancy, he beat Kate and threw her out of the house. Curtis refused to let Kate see Austin or Billie and told her they were dead. Kate left Salem with her son by Bill, whom she named Lucas.

Many years later, Kate returned to Salem a newly successful, ruthless woman. She reunited with Billie and Austin, gave birth to another child (Phillip -- and, well, "gave birth" is a loose interpretation. Vivian stole her fertilized egg) ... all the while scheming against and sleeping with anyone that stepped in her path. Getting the hint that this is not a lady to cross?