From Best Friends to Fiancés—Reba McEntire and Rex Linn Prove Real Love Doesn’t Rush, It Grows. ML
Country music icon Reba McEntire is officially engaged to her longtime partner, Rex Linn, celebrating a beautiful new chapter in their five-year relationship that blossomed from friendship, laughter, and undeniable chemistry.
The couple made their engagement public at the 2025 Emmy Awards, where the 69-year-old star, glowing in a stunning red dress, proudly introduced Rex as her fiancé on the red carpet. Fans worldwide rejoiced, thrilled to see one of country music’s most cherished figures finding love again.
McEntire, who stars with Linn in the forthcoming NBC comedy Happy’s Place, has described their bond as “easy, natural, and full of joy.” Although they first met decades ago during the 1991 TV movie The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw, their romance only took root when they reconnected in 2020.
“We’ve lived a lot of life apart,” Reba revealed in a recent interview, “but when we found each other again, everything just felt right. He makes me laugh every single day. He’s my best friend.”
Linn, known for roles in CSI: Miami and Young Sheldon, has praised Reba’s warmth and humor, saying, “She’s one of the most genuine, loving people I’ve ever met. Being with her feels like coming home.”
They affectionately call each other ‘Tater Tot’ and ‘Sugar Tot,’ nicknames adored by their fans and reflective of their playful, down-to-earth connection.
Their relationship thrived even during the pandemic, when they shared quiet nights talking on the phone and cooking together at home in Tennessee. “Those peaceful evenings, filled with laughter and conversation, showed me he was the one,” Reba said with a smile.
This engagement marks Reba’s third marriage and Rex’s first. She was previously married to Charlie Battles (1976–1987) and Narvel Blackstock (1989–2015). After her divorces, she expressed uncertainty about finding love again but credits Rex with “bringing the light back into my life.”
At the Emmys, Reba radiated pride as she spoke about her fiancé: “He’s my partner in every way — in life, laughter, and even sometimes on screen. I’m the luckiest woman alive.”
Congratulations flooded social media from fans, friends, and fellow artists. Dolly Parton shared, “So happy for you, Reba! You deserve all the love.” Carrie Underwood added, “Two of the sweetest souls — congrats!”
As they prepare for their wedding, the couple plans to keep it simple and meaningful — “an intimate celebration filled with music, family, and love.”
After decades of touching hearts worldwide with her music and spirit, Reba McEntire has found her own happily-ever-after — a storybook ending of laughter, faith, and second chances.
