Life can throw curveballs that leave even the strongest among us reeling. For country music legend Reba McEntire, one of those moments came in 1991 when she lost eight members of her team in a devastating plane crash. She was heartbroken, lost, and unsure of what lay ahead. That’s when the late Kenny Rogers stepped in and, as Reba puts it, "saved my sanity." He invited her to star in his movie The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw, offering her a lifeline at a time when she needed it most.
A Lifeline in Darkness
Reba McEntire recently opened up about the pivotal role Kenny Rogers played in helping her through one of the darkest periods of her life. Speaking to Taste of Country on September 10, 2020, the 65-year-old singer recalled how she was struggling to find her footing after the tragedy. "I was still in a state of disbelief," she said, "not knowing what I was going to do moving forward after the plane crash." It was then that Kenny asked her to join him in The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw. This opportunity wasn’t just a job—it was a chance to heal and refocus.
Reba’s Devastating Loss
In March 1991, tragedy struck when a private jet carrying eight members of Reba’s team, including her beloved manager, crashed just minutes after takeoff near San Diego. Fortunately, Reba wasn’t on the plane; she had stayed behind in California with her then-husband Narvel Blackstock and her stylist, Sandy Spika. Still, the loss was overwhelming. Losing so many close friends and colleagues so suddenly left her in pieces. But Kenny Rogers came along and gave her something to focus on, helping her channel her grief into creativity.
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A Role That Changed Everything
When Kenny offered Reba a role as Burgundy Jones in the fourth installment of the The Gambler series, it was more than just another acting gig. It was a chance to escape the pain and immerse herself in something new. Looking back, Reba credits Kenny for pulling her out of her despair. "I miss him so much," she admitted. "He was such a special person and a big-hearted giver." His kindness and generosity didn’t just save her sanity—they reminded her of the power of friendship and support in times of need.
Remembering Kenny Rogers
Kenny Rogers passed away in March 2020 at the age of 81. His family announced that he died peacefully at home under hospice care, surrounded by loved ones. The music world mourned the loss of a true icon, but for Reba, the pain was deeply personal. Shortly after his passing, she paid tribute to him with an emotional message. "Kenny, go rest high on that mountain," she wrote. "Please tell mama and daddy hi for me. Thank you for your friendship and your love. We are going to miss you, but we are so happy you're singing with the angels in heaven. Can't wait to see you again one of these days. Rest in peace, my friend."
Legacy of Friendship
Though Kenny is gone, his impact on Reba—and countless others—will never fade. Their bond was built on mutual respect, admiration, and a shared passion for music and storytelling. Even now, Reba cherishes the memories they created together and the difference he made in her life. As she continues to perform and inspire fans around the world, part of her legacy will always be tied to the man who helped her through her darkest days.
