When Reba McEntire made her much-anticipated coaching debut on The Voice on September 25, fans couldn’t help but fall in love all over again. This time, it wasn’t just her incredible voice or her country music charm that stole the show—it was the way she melted hearts with every mention of her beloved boyfriend, Rex Linn. From tater tots to sweet nicknames, this couple is giving us all the feels.
A Night of Incredible Performances and Heartwarming Moments
The night was nothing short of spectacular. Contestants dazzled with their performances, and the coaches were on the edge of their seats, waiting for that epic chair turn. But what truly set the tone was Reba’s delightful revelation about her relationship with Rex. At 68, Reba shared a heartwarming story about how her 66-year-old beau adorably refers to her as “Tater Tot.” In return, the legendary singer affectionately calls him “Sugar Tot.” It’s a match made in heaven, and their connection is as sweet as their nicknames.
Reba’s Tater Tot Station: A Strategy to Win Hearts
To charm potential team members and showcase her down-to-earth personality, Reba set up a tater tot station for everyone to enjoy after their auditions. It was a clever move that not only showcased her fun-loving spirit but also reminded viewers of the playful side of her relationship with Rex. A photo of the couple flashed on the screen, proving that love is in the air—and it smells like fried potatoes.
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The Love Story Behind the Nicknames
Reba and Rex’s journey began way back in 1991 when they met on the set of The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw. However, it wasn’t until nearly three decades later that they decided to explore a romantic relationship. In early 2020, during a memorable dinner date, their nicknames were born. Reba recounted the story during a March 2023 appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show: “We all went to dinner, had a great time, and then headed to a wine bar. When they asked if we wanted appetizers, I said, ‘What do you have?’ They replied, ‘Well, we have tater tots.’ And just like that, Rex declared, ‘That’s your nickname from here on out—Tater Tot.’”
It’s moments like these that make their love story so special. Rex has always had a knack for giving people nicknames, and when it came to Reba, he knew he had found the perfect one. “My nicknames are legendary,” Rex explained during an episode of the podcast Living & Learning with Reba McEntire in October 2021. “They stick with people because they present themselves naturally. I didn’t plan it—I just knew it was right.”
Their nicknames have become a symbol of their deep connection and playful affection. “We’re the Tots—Sugar and Tater,” Reba proudly declared. “We’ve been together ever since, and Rex is truly a sweetheart.”
Rex’s talent for naming people is legendary, and he’s thrilled that his nickname for Reba has stuck. “Nicknames are something that just happens,” he explained. “They’re spontaneous, and when they fit, they stick. Reba was destined to be Tater Tot from the moment she dove into those fried potatoes with such enthusiasm.”
As the couple continues to share their love story, it’s clear that their relationship is built on a foundation of mutual respect, admiration, and a whole lot of fun. Whether it’s walking the red carpet together or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Reba and Rex are proving that love knows no bounds—and it’s as delicious as a plate of tater tots.
