Reba Nell McEntire, known as "the Queen of Country", is a renowned American country music singer and actress with over 75 million records sold globally. Her career, spanning from the 1970s, boasts over 100 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, including 25 number one hits.
1926: Birth of Jacqueline McEntire
Reba McEntire's mother, Jacqueline McEntire, was born in 1926.
1927: Birth of Clark McEntire
Reba McEntire's father, Clark McEntire, was born in 1927.
1934: John Wesley McEntire Becomes World Champion Steer Roper
Reba McEntire's grandfather, John Wesley McEntire, won the world championship in steer roping in 1934.
March 28, 1955: Birth of Reba McEntire
Reba Nell McEntire was born on March 28, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma.
1955: Reba McEntire's Birth and Family Background
Reba McEntire was born in McAlester, Oklahoma in 1955. Her family had a strong connection to rodeo, with her grandfather and father being world-champion steer ropers.
1957: Clark McEntire's First World Championship Win
In 1957, Clark McEntire, Reba's father, secured his first world championship title in steer roping.
1958: Clark McEntire's Second World Championship Win
Clark McEntire achieved his second world championship win in steer roping in 1958.
1961: Clark McEntire's Third World Championship Win
Clark McEntire secured his third world championship in steer roping in 1961.
1969: Bobbie Gentry's "Fancy"
Bobbie Gentry released her signature song "Fancy" in 1969, which would later become one of McEntire's most recognizable covers.
1971: The Singing McEntires Release First Single
The Singing McEntires, a trio formed by Reba and her siblings, released their debut single, "The Ballad of John McEntire," in 1971. The song paid tribute to their grandfather.
1973: Reba McEntire Graduates High School
Reba McEntire graduated from Kiowa High School in 1973.
March 1975: Trip to Nashville for Demo Recording
Reba McEntire traveled to Nashville, Tennessee, in March 1975 to record a demo tape. Initially hesitant about pursuing a professional music career, she decided to move forward after a heartfelt conversation with her mother.
November 1975: Signing with PolyGram/Mercury Records
Reba McEntire formally signed a recording contract with PolyGram/Mercury Records in November 1975, marking the beginning of her journey in the country music industry.
1975: Red Steagall Champions Reba McEntire
Impressed by Reba McEntire's singing, Red Steagall offered to help her launch her music career in 1975. Recognizing her talent, he focused on her instead of her siblings.
1975: Reba McEntire Signs with PolyGram/Mercury Records
After being discovered by Red Steagall, Reba McEntire secured a recording contract with PolyGram/Mercury Records in 1975. She relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, with her mother the same year.
January 1976: First Recordings with PolyGram/Mercury
Reba McEntire began her recording career in January 1976, laying down her first tracks for PolyGram/Mercury Records. These early recordings were produced by Glenn Keener and featured a Countrypolitan style with string arrangements.
1976: McEntire Marries Charlie Battles
Reba McEntire married steer wrestling champion and rancher Charlie Battles in 1976. Battles, who was ten years McEntire's senior, had two sons from a previous marriage. The couple lived and worked together on a ranch in Oklahoma.
September 17, 1977: Grand Ole Opry Debut
Reba McEntire made her debut performance at the iconic Grand Ole Opry on September 17, 1977, singing "Invitation to the Blues."
1977: Debut Album Release
Reba McEntire's self-titled debut album was released in 1977. The album showcased a country crossover style, drawing comparisons to artists like Barbara Mandrell and Tammy Wynette.
1978: Early Career Momentum and First Hit
Reba McEntire's career started gaining momentum in 1978 when she collaborated with Jacky Ward on the singles "I'd Really Love to See You Tonight" and "Three Sheets in the Wind," which became her first top 20 hit on the country chart.
1979: Second Studio Album and First Top 20 Solo Hit
In 1979, McEntire released her second album, "Out of a Dream," featuring a cover of Patsy Cline's "Sweet Dreams," which became her first top 20 solo hit.
1980: Band Formation, Touring, and First Top 10 Hit
McEntire formed her band in 1980, toured extensively, and released her third album, "Feel the Fire," which included her first top ten hit, "(You Lift Me) Up to Heaven."
1981: "Heart to Heart" Album Release and Chart Debut
McEntire's fourth album, "Heart to Heart" (1981), marked her debut on the Billboard Country Albums chart, featuring the hit single "Today All Over Again," her highest-charting single at the time.
1983: First Number One Hit and Album "Unlimited"
In 1983, McEntire achieved her first number one hit with "Can't Even Get the Blues," followed by another chart-topper, "You're the First Time I Thought About Leaving," both featured on her album "Unlimited."
1984: Signing with MCA Records and Artistic Control
McEntire signed with MCA Records in 1984 and released "Just a Little Love," followed by "My Kind of Country," an album that marked her taking control of her music and achieving breakthrough success.
1984: Breakthrough with "My Kind of Country"
Reba McEntire's album "My Kind of Country" was released in 1984, marking her breakthrough in the music industry. The album achieved significant success and helped establish her more traditional country sound.
1985: "Have I Got a Deal for You" Album and World Series Performance
McEntire released her eighth album, "Have I Got a Deal for You," in 1985 and performed the National Anthem at the World Series.
January 17, 1986: Grand Ole Opry Induction
On January 17, 1986, Reba McEntire was inducted into the prestigious Grand Ole Opry, marking a significant milestone in her country music career.
February 1986: "Whoever's in New England" Album and Grammy Win
February 1986 saw the release of McEntire's ninth studio album, "Whoever's in New England," which topped the Billboard Country Albums chart and earned her a Grammy Award.
1986: Stage Show Transformation and Chart-topping Hits
McEntire revamped her stage show in 1986 and released her twelfth album, "What Am I Gonna Do About You," featuring two number one hits.
1987: Grammy Award Win
Reba McEntire won her first Grammy Award in 1987.
1987: McEntire Divorces Battles, Moves to Nashville
In 1987, Reba McEntire made significant life changes by divorcing Charlie Battles and relocating to Nashville, Tennessee. The move to Nashville, a hub for country music, indicated her commitment to advancing her music career.
1987: New Album, Christmas Collection, and Carnegie Hall Debut
In 1987, McEntire released her thirteenth album, "The Last One to Know," her first Christmas collection, and made her debut at Carnegie Hall.
1988: Career Control, New Company, and Pop-Inspired Album
McEntire took full control of her career in 1988, formed her own company, and released "Reba," a pop-influenced album.
1988: Critical Reception to McEntire's Evolving Sound
Over the years, Reba McEntire's music has drawn both praise and criticism for its stylistic evolution. While her music is rooted in traditional country, it has also incorporated elements of country pop, mainstream pop, soul, and R&B. Some music critics have labeled her work as "melodramatic," "formulaic," or "bombastic," particularly after the release of her 1988 album "Reba." Albums such as "Sweet Sixteen," "Rumor Has It," "It's Your Call," and "Starting Over" have been categorized in this manner, sparking discussions about artistic direction and genre conventions in country music.
1989: Return to Traditional Country and First Live Album
In 1989, McEntire returned to her traditional country roots with the album "Sweet Sixteen" and released her first live album, "Reba Live."
1989: Film Debut in "Tremors"
Reba McEntire landed her first film role in 1989, starring as Heather Gummer in the horror-comedy "Tremors" alongside Kevin Bacon.
1989: McEntire Marries Narvel Blackstock
Reba McEntire married her manager and former steel guitar player, Narvel Blackstock, in 1989. The couple exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony on a boat at Lake Tahoe. Their union not only deepened their personal connection but also led to the creation of Starstruck Entertainment, a company initially intended to manage McEntire's career but later expanded its reach. Through her marriage to Blackstock, McEntire became a stepmother to his three children: Chassidy, Shawna, and Brandon.
January 1990: Acting Debut in "Tremors"
Reba McEntire made her acting debut in January 1990 with a role in the film "Tremors."
February 1990: McEntire and Blackstock Welcome Son Shelby
Reba McEntire and Narvel Blackstock welcomed their son, Shelby Steven McEntire Blackstock, in February 1990. Shelby's birth added another dimension to their family, which also included Blackstock's three children from a previous marriage.
1990: "Tremors" Release and Growing Interest in Acting
Following the release of "Tremors" in 1990, Reba McEntire developed a strong passion for acting, making it her second career focus.
1990: "Rumor Has It" Album and Crossover Success
McEntire released "Rumor Has It" in 1990, an album that achieved both commercial success and crossover appeal, featuring hits like "You Lie" and her iconic cover of "Fancy."
1990: Co-hosting the Country Music Association Awards
Reba McEntire co-hosted the Country Music Association Awards with Randy Travis in 1990.
March 16, 1991: Plane Crash Kills Members of McEntire's Band
On March 16, 1991, a plane carrying members of Reba McEntire's touring band crashed into Otay Mountain in San Diego, tragically killing everyone on board. McEntire and a select few others, including her husband and stylist, were on a separate flight scheduled to depart the next day.
October 1991: Release of "For My Broken Heart"
In October 1991, Reba McEntire released her sixteenth album, "For My Broken Heart", dedicating it to the members of her road band who tragically died in a plane crash earlier that year. The album, exploring themes of sorrow, loss, and emotional turmoil, became a commercial success, peaking at number three on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.
1991: McEntire and Linn Meet on Set of "The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw"
Reba McEntire and Rex Linn first encountered each other in 1991 while working on the set of "The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw." Little did they know that their paths would cross again decades later, leading to a romantic relationship.
1991: Saturn Award Nomination
Reba McEntire's performance in "Tremors" earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 1991 Saturn Awards, recognizing her talent in the horror and science fiction genres.
1991: National Transportation Safety Board Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board conducted an investigation in 1991, likely related to a significant event, the details of which are not provided in the context.
1991: Plane Crash Tragedy and Release of "For My Broken Heart"
In a heartbreaking event, eight members of Reba McEntire's band died in a plane crash in San Diego, California, in 1991. This tragedy deeply impacted McEntire, inspiring her critically acclaimed album "For My Broken Heart."
1991: Solo Hosting of the Country Music Association Awards
Reba McEntire made history in 1991 by becoming the second woman to host the Country Music Association Awards solo.
December 1992: Release of "It's Your Call"
Reba McEntire released her seventeenth album, "It's Your Call," in December 1992, marking another milestone in her career. The album reached the top ten of the Billboard 200, showcasing her growing mainstream appeal.
1992: Reba's Ranch House Opening
In 1992, Reba McEntire opened Reba's Ranch House in Denison, Texas. This establishment served as an extended-stay residence for families of patients receiving medical treatment at the Texoma Medical Center and other nearby healthcare facilities.
1992: Co-hosting the Country Music Association Awards
Reba McEntire co-hosted the Country Music Association Awards alongside Vince Gill in 1992.
1993: Collaboration with Linda Davis and CMA Awards Performance
In 1993, McEntire collaborated with Linda Davis on the single "Does He Love You," which became a number one hit. They performed the duet at the CMA Awards, where McEntire's choice of attire, a red dress with a plunging neckline, sparked controversy within the Nashville community.
1994: Grammy Award Win
Reba McEntire won a Grammy Award in 1994.
1994: Grammy Award Win
Reba McEntire won her second Grammy Award in 1994.
1994: Release of "Read My Mind"
In 1994, McEntire released her eighteenth studio album, "Read My Mind," which peaked at number two on both the Billboard 200 and Top Country Albums charts. The album addressed sensitive topics, including a song about a woman contracting AIDS titled "She Thinks His Name Was John," which faced some backlash due to its lyrical content.
1994: "Is There Life Out There?" Television Movie
Reba McEntire starred in "Is There Life Out There?" a television movie released in 1994, which was based on her song of the same name.
1994: Release of "Read My Mind" Album
Reba McEntire released the album "Read My Mind" in 1994.
1994: Role in "North"
In 1994, Reba McEntire took on the role of Ma Tex in the film "North," directed by Rob Reiner.
1995: Release of 20th Anniversary Album "Starting Over"
Commemorating her two decades in the music industry, McEntire released "Starting Over" in 1995. This album featured covers of songs that held special significance to her.
November 1996: Release of "What If It's You"
Reba McEntire's album "What If It's You" was released in November 1996, marking a return to a contemporary country sound.
1996: Release of "What If It's You" Album
Reba McEntire released the album "What If It's You" in 1996.
1996: Turning Down "Titanic" Role
Reba McEntire was initially cast as Molly Brown in James Cameron's 1996 film "Titanic." However, production delays conflicted with her pre-existing concert commitments, leading her to decline the role, which was then given to Kathy Bates.
June 1998: Collaboration with Brooks & Dunn and Release of "If You See Him/If You See Her"
In June 1998, McEntire released the album "If You See Him," while Brooks & Dunn released "If You See Her," both featuring their hit duet "If You See Him/If You See Her." This collaboration marked the beginning of a successful partnership between McEntire and the duo.
1998: Release of "If You See Him" Album
The album "If You See Him" by Reba McEntire was released in 1998.
1998: Starring in "Forever Love"
In 1998, Reba McEntire starred as Lizzie Brooks in the film "Forever Love." This film was inspired by her hit single of the same name.
1999: Release of Christmas Album and "So Good Together"
The year 1999 saw McEntire release two albums: her second Christmas album, "The Secret of Giving: A Christmas Collection," and her twenty-second studio album, "So Good Together."
October 2001: "Reba" Sitcom Premieres
In October 2001, Reba McEntire's sitcom, "Reba", premiered on The WB network. The show, centered around a divorced mother navigating life's challenges, received critical acclaim and became a ratings success, establishing itself as the network's highest-rated show for adults aged 18 to 49.
2001: Release of "I'm a Survivor"
In 2001, McEntire released the single "I'm a Survivor," which became a top five country hit and the theme song to her television series of the same name.
2001: Broadway Debut in "Annie Get Your Gun"
Reba McEntire made her Broadway debut in 2001, starring in the revival of the musical "Annie Get Your Gun." Her performance as Annie Oakley received critical acclaim, with The New York Times praising it as "the best performance by an actress in a musical comedy this season." McEntire herself acknowledged the demanding nature of the role, calling it "some of the hardest work I've ever done in my life."
2001: Broadway Debut in "Annie Get Your Gun" and Launch of "Reba" TV Series
The year 2001 marked Reba McEntire's Broadway debut as Annie Oakley in the musical "Annie Get Your Gun." Additionally, her television series "Reba" premiered on The WB.
August 2003: Release of "I'm Gonna Take That Mountain"
McEntire returned to her music career in August 2003 with the release of the single "I'm Gonna Take That Mountain."
November 2003: Release of "Room to Breathe"
In November 2003, McEntire released her first studio album in four years, titled "Room to Breathe." The album marked a comeback for the artist, signaling a need for creative space and personal growth.
2004: "Room to Breathe" Tour
Following the release of her album, McEntire embarked on her "Room to Breathe" tour in 2004, reconnecting with fans across the United States after a period of focusing on other projects.
2005: McEntire Stars in "South Pacific" at Carnegie Hall
In 2005, Reba McEntire showcased her theatrical talent by starring as Nellie Forbush in a concert production of the renowned Broadway musical "South Pacific" at the prestigious Carnegie Hall. The production also featured notable actors such as Alec Baldwin and Brian Stokes Mitchell.
2005: Release of "Reba #1's"
While between albums, McEntire's label released a double-disc compilation titled "Reba #1's" in 2005, celebrating her numerous chart-topping hits.
2006: Broadcast of "South Pacific" Concert
The 2005 Carnegie Hall concert production of "South Pacific", starring Reba McEntire, was broadcast as part of the esteemed "Great Performances" series in 2006, allowing a wider audience to enjoy the performance.
February 18, 2007: "Reba" Sitcom Ends
Reba McEntire's successful television sitcom, "Reba", aired its final episode on February 18, 2007, after six seasons. The series finale garnered a significant viewership of 8.7 million.
September 2007: Reba: Duets Release
In September 2007, Reba McEntire released her studio album "Reba: Duets," featuring collaborations with artists like Kenny Chesney, LeAnn Rimes, and Justin Timberlake. The album topped Billboard charts and achieved platinum certification.
2007: Grammy Nomination
Reba McEntire received a Grammy nomination in 2007.
November 2008: Leaving MCA Nashville
In November 2008, Reba McEntire departed from her record label, MCA Nashville.
2008: Record Label Switch
In 2008, McEntire made a significant career move by leaving her long-time label and signing with Valory Music Group, an imprint of Big Machine Records. This change reunited her with Scott Borchetta.
August 2009: Release of "Keep On Loving You"
In August 2009, Reba McEntire released her 26th studio album, "Keep On Loving You." The album was a commercial success, topping both the Billboard Country and 200 charts.
November 2010: Release of "All the Women I Am" and Tour
Reba McEntire released her 29th studio album, "All the Women I Am," in November 2010. Following the release, she embarked on the "All the Women I Am Tour," featuring supporting acts like The Band Perry and Steel Magnolia.
September 2011: ABC Orders Pilot for "Malibu Country"
In September 2011, ABC network ordered a pilot episode for Reba McEntire's proposed television series "Malibu Country". This marked an important step in the development of the show.
2011: Country Music Hall of Fame Induction
Reba McEntire was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2011, a testament to her enduring impact on country music. Dolly Parton, a country music legend herself, had the honor of inducting McEntire during the ceremony.
April 2012: "Malibu Country" Pilot Filmed
The pilot episode for Reba McEntire's television series "Malibu Country" was filmed in April 2012, marking the beginning of the show's production process.
May 11, 2012: "Malibu Country" Picked Up for Full Season
On May 11, 2012, Reba McEntire announced that her television series, "Malibu Country", had been picked up for a full season. This decision demonstrated the network's confidence in the show's potential for success.
November 2, 2012: "Malibu Country" Premieres
Reba McEntire's second television series, "Malibu Country," premiered on November 2, 2012. The show, featuring McEntire as a divorced mother pursuing a music career in Malibu, aired on ABC Friday nights.
May 10, 2013: "Malibu Country" Cancelled
Despite being the most-watched new comedy in its first season, "Malibu Country", starring Reba McEntire, was canceled on May 10, 2013, after airing eighteen episodes.
2013: McEntire Expresses Excitement Over Blackstock and Clarkson's Wedding
Reba McEntire expressed her joy and excitement for the upcoming marriage of her stepson, Brandon Blackstock, and singer Kelly Clarkson in 2013. She referred to Clarkson as both her "buddy" and "daughter-in-law," highlighting the close relationship they shared.
2013: Miranda Lambert Ties Record
In 2013, country music artist Miranda Lambert equaled Reba McEntire's record by winning the Country Music Association's Female Vocalist of the Year Award for four consecutive years.
2014: Joining Nash Icon Music
In 2014, McEntire transitioned to Nash Icon Music, a new imprint under Big Machine Records specifically created for established artists.
2014: Death of Clark McEntire
Reba McEntire's father, Clark McEntire, passed away in 2014.
August 3, 2015: McEntire and Blackstock Announce Separation
After 26 years of marriage, Reba McEntire and Narvel Blackstock publicly announced their separation on August 3, 2015, through a joint statement on McEntire's website. The news marked the end of a long-standing personal and professional partnership, as Blackstock had also been McEntire's manager.
October 28, 2015: McEntire and Blackstock Divorce Finalized
Reba McEntire and Narvel Blackstock's divorce was finalized on October 28, 2015.
December 2015: McEntire Announces Divorce Finalization
Reba McEntire confirmed the finalization of her divorce from Narvel Blackstock in December 2015, marking the conclusion of their 26-year marriage. Despite the divorce, McEntire maintained a close relationship with her stepchildren and grandchildren, emphasizing the importance of family.
2015: "Going Out Like That" and "Love Somebody" Release
In 2015, McEntire released the single "Going Out Like That," which reached the top 25 on Billboard's country charts. The song was featured on her album "Love Somebody," released under the Nash Icon label.
December 15, 2016: "Sing It Now: Songs of Faith & Hope" Announcement
On December 15, 2016, McEntire announced her first gospel album, "Sing It Now: Songs of Faith & Hope."
2016: McEntire as Guest Judge on "America's Got Talent"
In 2016, Reba McEntire appeared as a guest judge on the eleventh season of the talent competition show "America's Got Talent". During her time on the show, McEntire used her Golden Buzzer to advance contortionist Sofie Dossi to the next round, highlighting her support for unique and impressive talent.
2016: Carrie Underwood Joins Elite Group
Carrie Underwood joined the ranks of Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert in 2016 by securing her fourth win of the Country Music Association's Female Vocalist of the Year Award, solidifying her place among country music's leading female vocalists.
2016: "My Kind of Christmas" and "Rockin' R by Reba" Launch
McEntire released her third Christmas album, "My Kind of Christmas," in 2016, exclusively through Cracker Barrel. She also diversified her career by launching "Rockin' R by Reba," a lifestyle brand encompassing clothing, home décor, and jewelry, also sold through Cracker Barrel.
January 2017: McEntire to Star in "Red Blooded"
In January 2017, it was announced that Reba McEntire would star in and produce a Southern drama series for ABC titled "Red Blooded."
February 3, 2017: "Sing It Now: Songs of Faith & Hope" Release
Reba McEntire released her debut gospel album, "Sing It Now: Songs of Faith & Hope," on February 3, 2017. The album was a two-disc set, featuring traditional hymns on one disc and original tracks on the other.
October 13, 2017: Re-release of "My Kind of Christmas"
On October 13, 2017, McEntire re-released her Christmas album "My Kind of Christmas." This expanded version, available on her website and iTunes, included collaborations with Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Darius Rucker, and Lauren Daigle.
2017: McEntire Begins Dating Anthony Lasuzzo
Reba McEntire embarked on a new romantic relationship with photographer Anthony "Skeeter" Lasuzzo in 2017. The couple's introduction came through McEntire's association with Kix Brooks, leading to a two-year relationship. Their shared passion for photography played a role in their connection, offering them common ground and opportunities to bond.
January 2018: McEntire as KFC's Colonel Sanders
Reba McEntire took on the iconic role of KFC's Colonel Sanders in a series of commercials that began airing in January 2018. This marked the first time a woman portrayed the Colonel, breaking new ground in advertising. The commercials ran until the end of April 2018.
January 2018: Grammy Award Win
Reba McEntire won the Grammy Award for Best Roots Gospel Album in January 2018 for "Sing It Now: Songs of Faith & Hope." This win marked her first Grammy Award in over two decades, since 1994, and her first Grammy nomination since 2007.
April 2018: McEntire's KFC Commercials End
Reba McEntire's run as KFC's Colonel Sanders in a series of commercials ended in April 2018.
July 2018: Kennedy Center Honoree Announcement
In July 2018, it was announced that Reba McEntire would be one of the four recipients of the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors for that year.
December 2, 2018: Kennedy Center Honors Ceremony
Reba McEntire was among the honorees at the 41st annual Kennedy Center Honors ceremony on December 2, 2018. The ceremony celebrated her contributions to American culture alongside Cher, Philip Glass, and Wayne Shorter.
December 2018: Kennedy Center Honor Recipient
In December of 2018, Reba McEntire was recognized for her lifetime achievements in the performing arts with a Kennedy Center Honor.
December 26, 2018: Kennedy Center Honors Broadcast
The 41st annual Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, where Reba McEntire was a recipient, was broadcast on CBS on December 26, 2018.
2018: Horatio Alger Award
Reba McEntire received the Horatio Alger Award in 2018 for her dedication to education and charitable work. This prestigious award acknowledges individuals who have overcome adversity and demonstrated a commitment to giving back to their communities.
April 5, 2019: Release of "Stronger Than the Truth"
On April 5, 2019, Reba McEntire released her 29th studio album, "Stronger Than the Truth."
April 8, 2019: Hosting the Academy of Country Music Awards
Reba McEntire returned as the host for the 54th Academy of Country Music Awards on April 8, 2019.
April 2019: McEntire Discusses Relationship with Lasuzzo
In April 2019, Reba McEntire openly discussed her relationship with photographer Anthony "Skeeter" Lasuzzo, whom she had been dating since 2017 after meeting through her connection to Kix Brooks. She expressed her deep affection for Lasuzzo, stating, "We're totally in love — absolutely," and emphasizing the genuineness of their relationship. However, their romance ended six months later.
2019: Co-hosting the Country Music Association Awards
In 2019, Reba McEntire co-hosted the Country Music Association Awards alongside Carrie Underwood and Dolly Parton.
February 20, 2020: Signing with MCA Nashville
In a surprise appearance at the Country Radio Seminar on February 20, 2020, Reba McEntire announced her return to MCA Nashville, the label she had left in November 2008.
November 2020: Co-hosting the Country Music Association Awards
Reba McEntire co-hosted the 54th Annual Country Music Association Awards alongside Darius Rucker in November 2020. This marked another instance of her hosting the prestigious awards show, adding to her previous appearances in 2019 with Carrie Underwood and Dolly Parton, in 1992 with Vince Gill, solo in 1991 (becoming the second solo female host), and in 1990 with Randy Travis.
2020: McEntire and Rex Linn Begin Dating
Reba McEntire found love again in 2020 when she began dating film and TV actor Rex Linn, marking the start of a new chapter in her personal life. Their paths first crossed nearly three decades earlier on the set of "The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw" in 1991. Their connection was rekindled many years later when McEntire made a guest appearance on the television show "Young Sheldon," where Linn had a recurring role as the principal of Sheldon's high school, providing them with an opportunity to reconnect and rekindle their acquaintance.
2020: Death of Jacqueline McEntire
Reba McEntire's mother, Jacqueline McEntire, passed away in 2020.
2020: McEntire Launches "Living & Learning" Podcast
Reba McEntire, along with her former "Reba" co-star Melissa Peterman, started a podcast called "Living & Learning" in 2020.
2021: McEntire Appears in "Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar"
Reba McEntire made a memorable cameo appearance as the water spirit Trish in the 2021 comedy film "Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar." Her involvement came after the film's writers and stars, Annie Mumolo and Kristen Wiig, extended a heartfelt invitation for her to join the project. Director Josh Greenbaum expressed his satisfaction with her casting, highlighting her authenticity and willingness to embrace the film's comedic spirit.
March 2022: Blackstock and Clarkson Divorce Finalized
The divorce between Reba McEntire's stepson, Brandon Blackstock, and singer Kelly Clarkson was finalized in March 2022. McEntire had previously expressed her excitement over their marriage in 2013, referring to Clarkson as her "buddy" and "daughter-in-law."
May 2022: McEntire Joins "Big Sky" Cast
In May 2022, ABC announced that Reba McEntire would be joining the cast of the drama series "Big Sky" for its third season. McEntire took on the role of Sunny Barnes, a local businesswoman, adding her star power to the show's ensemble.
October 3, 2022: "Reba: Live in Concert" Tour Extension and Madison Square Garden Debut
On October 3, 2022, Reba McEntire announced the extension of her "Reba: Live in Concert" tour, which would continue through 2023. The announcement also included her first-ever performance at New York City's Madison Square Garden.
May 2023: McEntire Joins "The Voice" as Coach
In a significant career move, Reba McEntire joined the popular singing competition show "The Voice" as a coach, replacing Blake Shelton, starting from the 24th season. Her addition to the coaching panel brought her extensive experience in the music industry to the forefront.
September 20, 2023: McEntire Reunites with Sofie Dossi on "America's Got Talent"
Reba McEntire shared a special reunion with contortionist Sofie Dossi, whom she had previously awarded the Golden Buzzer to during her time as a guest judge on "America's Got Talent." The reunion took place during a results show for the 18th season, where McEntire performed her song "Can't Even Get the Blues" while Dossi showcased her extraordinary contortion, hand-balancing, and aerial skills. The performance highlighted the enduring bond formed between the two talents.
2023: McEntire Stars in "The Hammer"
In 2023, Reba McEntire starred in the Lifetime movie "Reba McEntire's The Hammer." Inspired by the life of traveling Nevada circuit judge Kim Wheeler, the film reunited McEntire with her "Reba" sitcom co-star Melissa Peterman. The cast also includes McEntire's real-life boyfriend, Rex Linn, as a mysterious cowboy named Bart Crawford, and Kay Shioma Metchie as Vicky, a tough-talking bailiff and trusted friend to McEntire's character.
2023: "Reba: Live in Concert" Tour Extension
Reba McEntire extended her "Reba: Live in Concert" tour, continuing her performances throughout 2023.
2023: Coaching Role on "The Voice"
Reba McEntire joined the coaching panel of the singing competition show "The Voice" in 2023.
January 2024: McEntire to Create Comedy for NBC
In January 2024, news broke that Reba McEntire was developing a new comedy series for NBC. The show, later titled "Happy's Place," would see her reunite once again with Melissa Peterman, her co-star from the sitcom "Reba," further solidifying their successful on-screen partnership.
2024: Super Bowl LVIII National Anthem Performance
Reba McEntire performed the national anthem at Super Bowl LVIII in 2024. She was accompanied by deaf actor Daniel Durant, who signed the anthem in American Sign Language.