Three Husbands And A Fiancé: The Dramatic Love Story Of Reba McEntire And Her 'Best For Last' Partner
The question of who Reba McEntire is married to has a surprising and wonderfully modern answer in late 2025. The country music legend, actress, and coach on *The Voice* is not currently married, but she is joyfully engaged to her long-time friend and co-star, actor Rex Linn. This exciting news, subtly confirmed at the 2025 Emmy Awards, marks a new chapter in a storied romantic life that Reba herself has described as "God saved the best for last."
The relationship between McEntire and Linn is a beautiful second chance at love, rekindled after decades of friendship. They have become one of Hollywood's most beloved power couples, sharing both their personal lives and the screen on their new hit NBC sitcom, *Happy's Place*.
Reba McEntire: A Complete Biographical Profile
Reba Nell McEntire, born March 28, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma, is one of the most successful and enduring figures in country music history. Her career, spanning over five decades, has earned her the title "The Queen of Country."
- Full Name: Reba Nell McEntire
- Born: March 28, 1955 (Age 70 as of 2025)
- Birthplace: McAlester, Oklahoma, U.S.
- Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Television Producer, Entrepreneur
- Genre: Country, Country Pop
- Notable Albums: *My Kind of Country*, *Reba*, *For My Broken Heart*
- Television Roles: Star of the sitcom *Reba* (2001–2007), Coach on *The Voice* (2023–present), Star of *Happy's Place* (2024–present)
- Awards: Multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, and a National Cowgirl Hall of Fame induction.
- Children: One son, Shelby Blackstock (with ex-husband Narvel Blackstock).
The Two Marriages: From Cattle Rancher to Hollywood Manager
Before finding her "best for last" with Rex Linn, Reba McEntire navigated two long-term marriages, both of which significantly shaped her personal life and professional career. Her relationships have been a central part of her life story, often mirroring the themes of love and heartbreak found in her iconic songs like "Fancy" and "Does He Love You."
First Husband: Charlie Battles (1976–1987)
Reba's first marriage was to champion steer wrestler and cattle rancher Charlie Battles. They married in 1976 when Reba was just 21 and beginning her rise to stardom. Battles was 10 years her senior.
This was a pivotal time for the young artist, as she balanced the demands of her burgeoning career with life on a working ranch in Oklahoma. The marriage lasted 11 years, ending in divorce in 1987. Reba has spoken about the difficulty of juggling her career and the marriage, noting that the split was a painful but necessary step in her life.
Second Husband: Narvel Blackstock (1989–2015)
Reba's second marriage was to her long-time manager and former steel guitar player, Narvel Blackstock. Their relationship was a true partnership, blending personal life with professional ambition. They tied the knot in 1989.
During their 26-year marriage, Blackstock managed Reba's career, helping her achieve massive success in music, film, and television, including the hit sitcom *Reba*. They welcomed their only child together, a son named Shelby Steven McEntire Blackstock, in 1990. Shelby is now a professional race car driver.
The couple's sudden separation in 2015, which led to their divorce later that year, shocked the country music world. The split was reportedly a mutual decision, but Reba later admitted the divorce was not her choice. Despite the heartbreak, she has maintained that she is in a better place today.
The Current Chapter: Engaged to Rex Linn and Not Rushing the Wedding
The most current and exciting news in Reba's love life is her engagement to actor Rex Linn. The couple's relationship has been a heartwarming story of reconnecting with a friend who became a soulmate.
Who is Rex Linn? The New Fiancé Profile
Rex Maynard Linn is a successful American film and television actor, known to millions for his long-running role as Detective Frank Tripp on the hit CBS drama *CSI: Miami*. He was born on November 13, 1956, in Perryton, Texas, making him just a year younger than Reba.
Linn's career spans decades, with notable roles in films like *Cliffhanger* and *Rush Hour* and television appearances, including a recurring role as Kevin Wachtell on *Better Call Saul*. He is an alumnus of Oklahoma State University.
From Co-Stars to Soulmates: The Love Story
Reba and Rex first met in 1991 while working on the set of the Kenny Rogers television movie, *The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw*. They remained casual friends for nearly 30 years, often staying in touch.
Their romantic relationship began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. A simple dinner date in January 2020 led to daily phone calls during the lockdown, deepening their connection and leading them to officially start dating in June 2020. They affectionately call each other "Sugar Tot."
Their professional partnership has also blossomed. They co-star on the NBC sitcom *Happy's Place*, where Reba plays Bobbie, a woman who inherits a Knoxville tavern, and Linn plays a character named Robert. Their chemistry on and off-screen is undeniable, with Reba describing their relationship as being "silly, goofy people in our relationship."
The 2025 Engagement and Wedding Plans
The engagement news broke in a subtle but major way at the 2025 Emmy Awards. When an E! News reporter referred to them as "engaged," the couple smiled and nodded, confirming the happy news to the world. The engagement ring is a beautiful symbol of their commitment after five years of dating.
Despite the excitement, the couple is in no rush to walk down the aisle. Reba has openly stated that they are enjoying their engagement and their current life together. She has expressed that the most important thing is the relationship itself, not the ceremony. This mature perspective on marriage, coming from a woman with two previous divorces, shows a focus on genuine happiness and connection.
In a powerful statement about finding love later in life, Reba told AARP, "God Saved the Best for Last." This sentiment perfectly encapsulates her journey, moving from early career-focused marriages to a deep, comfortable, and mutually supportive partnership with Rex Linn. For now, the Queen of Country is relishing her role as a fiancé, co-star, and happy partner, with the world eagerly awaiting the next chapter of her love story.
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