Reba McEntire: Latest News, Happy's Place, ACM Awards & More!
Is there a name in entertainment more synonymous with resilience and reinvention than Reba McEntire? Her enduring career, spanning decades and multiple platforms, is a testament to her unwavering talent and her ability to connect with audiences across generations.
From the Oklahoma rodeo circuit to the bright lights of Hollywood, Reba McEntires journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. She's not just a country music icon; she's a television star, a Broadway performer, and a businesswoman, consistently challenging herself and captivating fans with each new endeavor. Her recent ventures, including a return to scripted television and a highly anticipated hosting gig, underscore her continued relevance and her refusal to be confined by any single label. These achievements all add to her legendary status, and continue to drive her upward.
| Full Name | Reba Nell McEntire |
| Date of Birth | March 28, 1955 |
| Place of Birth | McAlester, Oklahoma, USA |
| Occupation | Singer, Actress, Television Personality, Businesswoman |
| Spouse(s) | Charlie Battles (m. 1976; div. 1987) Narvel Blackstock (m. 1989; div. 2015) |
| Children | Shelby Blackstock |
| Associated acts | Brooks & Dunn, Vince Gill, Kelly Clarkson, Trisha Yearwood |
| Website | Reba.com |
On November 5, 2023, fans were treated to a dazzling performance as Reba took the stage at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee, for "An Evening with Reba & Friends." This event showcased her vocal prowess and her ability to captivate a live audience, further solidifying her position as a musical powerhouse.
The year 2024 promises to be another significant year for Reba McEntire. Her return to television, with the new NBC sitcom "Happy's Place," marks a joyful reunion with familiar faces. Melissa Peterman, known for her role as Barbra Jean in the hit sitcom "Reba" (which ran from 2001 to 2007), will once again share the screen with McEntire. The pilot episode of "Happy's Place" is eagerly anticipated, with fans hoping the show will recapture the magic of their previous collaboration. Reba is "headed back to scripted tv and she couldn't be more thrilled!"
Adding to the excitement, Reba is set to host the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards in May 2024. This prestigious event will not only showcase the best in country music but will also reunite her with her "Reba" co-star, Melissa Peterman, adding to the anticipation surrounding the awards show. Speaking to "Good Morning America," Reba discussed hosting the awards and her latest single, "I Can't," revealing her continued passion for her craft.
The depth of her personal experiences has also shaped her career. In a candid statement, she acknowledged the "worst thing to ever happen in my life" while discussing the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of seven members of her band and crew on March 16, 1991. Despite this profound loss, Reba's resilience shone through, and she continues to honor the memory of those she lost. She also shared a throwback Instagram video of her duet with Andrea Bocelli singing the Christmas song "Blue Christmas," sparking joy among her fans.
Beyond the spotlight, Reba's personal life continues to be a source of inspiration. She celebrated her son, Shelby Blackstock, with heartfelt throwback photos, expressing her love and pride. The country icon also revealed that she almost ended her singing career following the death of her mother in 2020. Yet, she found her passion anew and continues to share her gift with the world. Her influence extends beyond music, as her friendship with fellow judge Gwen Stefani on "The Voice" and her role in the success of many country artists show her role as a mentor and collaborator.
Adding a heartwarming note to her recent work, Reba shared her connection with her friend Trisha Yearwood, showcasing their bond. During a very busy time, Reba was forced to postpone some shows because of her health, a reminder that, even for a star like Reba, health comes first. Moreover, Reba is also active in supporting various causes, like the Andrea Bocelli Foundation and the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center, as demonstrated by her participation in Celebrity Fight Night Italy.
In moments of sorrow and devastation, Reba has always offered support. She expressed her devastation over the deadly wildfires that ripped through the Los Angeles area in January, demonstrating her commitment to using her platform for good. It is also notable that she opened the "Opry 100: A Live Celebration" by honoring her country music heroes Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn, acknowledging the strong foundations of her work.
Finally, her recent milestone birthday was a testament to her widespread influence. Reba celebrated her 70th birthday while on tour in Uncasville, Connecticut, and her family organized a surprise to make it a special occasion, proving that even in the busiest of times, family remains at the core of her life. This outpouring of support underscores her significant standing in the industry, and the depth of her connection with fans who have followed her since the very beginning. The love from her family and her fans is a key part of her ongoing success. It's the glue that binds it all together.
