They Laughed, Waited, and Loved—Now Reba and Rex’s Engagement Feels Like the Ending We’ve All Been Waiting For. ML
Country music superstar Reba McEntire is engaged to actor Rex Linn, capping off a five-year romance that began with friendship, shared laughter, and undeniable chemistry.
The couple confirmed their engagement at the 2025 Emmy Awards, where the 69-year-old star, radiant in a shimmering red dress, referred to Rex as her fiancé on the red carpet. Fans worldwide celebrated the news, thrilled to see Reba find love once more.
McEntire, who stars with Linn in the upcoming NBC comedy Happy’s Place, describes their relationship as “easy, natural, and joyful.” Although they first met during the 1991 TV movie The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw, their romantic spark ignited only after reconnecting in 2020.
“We had lived separate lives for many years,” Reba shared in a recent interview, “but when we found each other again, it just felt right. He makes me laugh daily — he’s my best friend.”
Linn, known for his roles in CSI: Miami and Young Sheldon, praised Reba’s warmth and humor, saying, “She’s one of the most genuine, loving people I’ve ever known. Being with her feels like coming home.”
They lovingly call each other ‘Tater Tot’ and ‘Sugar Tot,’ nicknames that have endeared them to fans and highlight their playful, down-to-earth bond.
Their relationship grew stronger during the pandemic, spending quiet nights talking on the phone and cooking at home in Tennessee. “Those peaceful evenings, full of laughter and conversation, made me realize he was the one,” Reba said with a smile.
This will be 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 admitted she wasn’t sure she’d find love again, but Rex “brought the light back into my life.”
At the Emmys, Reba beamed with pride speaking about her fiancé: “He’s my partner in every way — in life, laughter, and sometimes even on screen. I’m the luckiest woman alive.”
Fans, friends, and fellow country stars quickly took to social media with congratulations. Dolly Parton posted, “So happy for you, Reba! You deserve all the love in the world.” Carrie Underwood added, “Two of the sweetest souls — congratulations!”
The couple plans a simple, heartfelt wedding — “something private, filled with music, family, and love.”
After decades of touching hearts through her voice and spirit, Reba McEntire has found her happily-ever-after. For those who have followed her journey through joys and heartbreaks, this engagement feels like a storybook ending, written with laughter, faith, and second chances.
