Melissa Peterman reveals that meeting country legend Reba McEntire for the first time on the set of their groundbreaking sitcom, Reba, was nerve-wracking. But Reba made sure the atmosphere was warm and inviting right from the start. “I didn’t meet her until the table read,” Melissa, now 53, told Closer at the recent Television Critics Press Tour. “Reba made it feel so comfortable from day one. She reminded us all that we were here for the same reason—to have fun, create a great show, respect one another, and be grateful for the opportunity. Over two decades later, we haven’t really left each other’s sides. Even after the show ended, our friendship has only grown stronger!”

Today, Melissa and Reba are reuniting on the small screen with the much-anticipated sitcom Happy’s Place. “We’ve been waiting for another project so we could actually work together again in person,” Melissa says, her excitement palpable. “It’s like picking up where we left off, but this time with fresh characters and new stories to tell.”

What Was Growing Up Like for Melissa?

For Melissa, life began in the suburbs of Minneapolis. From an early age, she knew she wanted to perform. “I was a theater major in college,” she recalls fondly. “As a kid, I devoured books and spent countless hours watching classic comedy shows like The Carol Burnett Show and Saturday Night Live. I was captivated by the art of making people laugh. By the time I hit junior high and high school, I was fully immersed in performing. There’s something incredibly powerful about bringing joy to others through humor—it’s addictive.”

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Did Her Family Support Her Dreams?

Melissa’s family played a crucial role in nurturing her aspirations. “They were incredibly supportive, though there was definitely a protective instinct growing up in Minnesota,” she explains. “I could sense their fear sometimes, but they loved me enough to let me chase my dreams. My parents took my rejections personally! If I didn’t get an audition or a job, my mom would jokingly threaten to call the director or boycott products tied to commercials I auditioned for. It was hilarious, but it showed just how invested they were in my success.”

That’s So Heartwarming!

Even today, Melissa’s parents remain her biggest fans. “My dad knows my schedule better than I do!” she laughs. “They’re planning to fly out for the live tapings of Happy’s Place. Their unwavering support means the world to me. Of course, it’s tough for parents when their kids enter a field where rejection is part of the process. Every parent wants someone to recognize their child’s talent, and mine have always been my biggest cheerleaders.”

What Was Melissa’s Big Break?

While Melissa’s career has seen many highlights, two stand out as game-changers. “The movie Fargo was huge for me,” she says. “I landed the role right out of college, and being part of a Coen brothers film that won Oscars was incredible. But even after that, I went back to working at TGI Fridays! Then came Reba, which completely transformed my life. It wasn’t just about the fame—it was about the friendships and experiences that came with it.”

A Special Bond With Reba

Melissa’s relationship with Reba goes beyond professional collaboration. “Our friendship isn’t one of those superficial Hollywood connections,” she reflects. “We share real life—the highs, the lows, the messy stuff. There’s a deep trust between us. No matter what time I call her, I know she’ll call me back. And she knows the same about me. After more than two decades, I can say with certainty that Reba has my back, no matter what.”

Who Is Gabby in Happy’s Place?

In Happy’s Place, Melissa plays Gabby, a bartender with a knack for listening. “Gabby sees herself as something of a psychologist,” Melissa explains. “She’s quirky and a little lonely. While she considers her work family her real family, she craves deeper connections outside of work. When Isabella [played by Belissa Escobedo] enters the picture, Gabby feels both competition and curiosity. Ultimately, this show is about three women from different generations learning from each other. It’s a beautiful exploration of friendship and growth.”

Was It Weird Returning to Work With Reba But Playing Different Characters?

Melissa sees the transition as an exciting challenge. “It feels like being in a repertory theater,” she says. “We’re coming back to tell a new story with different characters, but the chemistry is still there. That’s such a strong foundation to build on. I’m thrilled to explore this new role and see how our dynamic evolves. The writers are committed to keeping things fresh while maintaining the essence of what made our previous work so special.”

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How Is Working Together Again Different This Time Around?

“The first time around, I was young, naive, and full of excitement,” Melissa admits. “I had no idea how much Reba would change my life. Now, knowing how rare and special it is to reunite with the same cast, it feels even more precious. There’s a deeper appreciation for the opportunity to create something meaningful together again.”