Country music legend Reba McEntire couldn’t contain her joy after being tapped to sing the national anthem at Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. "This is a dream come true," she shared, reflecting on her Feb. 11 performance. "It's been exactly 50 years since I first sang the anthem at the National Finals Rodeo back in Oklahoma City in 1974. What a full-circle moment!"
At 68, the multi-talented star, who's also a beloved coach on The Voice, has plenty to celebrate. Alongside her Super Bowl gig, she's preparing to release her 2023 album and book, Not That Fancy. Plus, NBC has greenlit a pilot for a brand-new sitcom starring Reba. And if that weren't enough, she's found true happiness in her personal life with actor Rex Linn. "Things are lining up in the best possible way," she beams.
Reba's return to sitcom TV has been a lifelong ambition since her self-titled series wrapped up in 2007 after six successful seasons. This new project isn't a reboot but rather a fresh start, with Reba reuniting with her original producing team. "Reba's time on TV was some of the best in her life," reveals a close friend. "She's a natural comedian with impeccable timing and loads of personality. She's been inspired by icons like Lucille Ball."
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In the upcoming untitled pilot, Reba will portray a woman who inherits her father's restaurant—only to discover she has a half-sister she never knew about. While casting details remain under wraps, don't be shocked if Rex makes a cameo appearance if the show gets picked up. "They enjoy collaborating," the friend adds. "There’s something magical about them working together."
Reba and Rex's story began on the set of the 1991 TV movie The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw, but their bond deepened when they co-starred in an episode of Young Sheldon in 2020. "They’re such a perfect pair," says the friend. "Both Rex and Reba radiate positivity and share a love for life that translates beautifully on screen. Fans would adore seeing them share the spotlight."
Meanwhile, Reba is back for Season 2 of The Voice, joining fellow coaches John Legend, Chance the Rapper, and newcomers Dan + Shay. Last season, two of her contestants made it to the finale, and she's thrilled to mentor this year's talent pool. "I'm constantly amazed by the level of skill these singers bring," she says. "Their voices are incredible, and their stories are inspiring."
A Life in Harmony
Reba feels incredibly fortunate to be at a place where her career and personal life align perfectly. She shares a close bond with her son, Shelby Blackstock, a former NASCAR driver, and his wife, Marissa, along with her five stepchildren from her marriage to Narvel Blackstock. "Right now, I'm in a really great place," she admits. "I'm content, in love, and surrounded by healthy family members. There's so much to be grateful for."
She's also managed to reconcile with Narvel, her ex-husband of 26 years, whom she divorced in 2015. "Reba and Narvel have established a new dynamic that works for their family," explains the friend. "Though they don't communicate regularly, they can coexist when necessary. Their mutual closeness with Shelby and Marissa ensures harmony, which is all Reba cares about."
Many speculate that Reba and Rex might tie the knot soon. "Marriage holds a special place in Reba's heart," the friend notes. "She and Rex are deeply committed, and she's always been a romantic. Making things official could be the next step in their journey together."
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