5 Surprising Facts About Reba McEntire’s New Fiancé, Rex Linn, And Their Whirlwind Engagement

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The question of "who is Reba McEntire dating" has officially been answered with a stunning, up-to-the-minute twist: she is engaged! As of the current date, December 23, 2025, the legendary country music superstar is preparing to walk down the aisle for the third time, having confirmed her engagement to longtime partner, the renowned actor Rex Linn. The news broke during a high-profile red carpet interview, immediately becoming one of the most talked-about stories in Hollywood and Nashville.

This isn't just a casual romance; it's a decades-in-the-making love story that began with a chance encounter in the 1990s, blossomed during the 2020 pandemic lockdown, and is now culminating in a very public engagement. For fans of the "Fancy" singer and the *CSI: Miami* star, this relationship is a testament to finding true love later in life. This deep dive reveals everything you need to know about Reba’s fiancé, their relationship timeline, and her complete biography.

The Complete Biography of Reba McEntire: Marriages, Career, and Family

Reba Nell McEntire is one of the most recognizable and successful figures in country music, a true icon whose career spans over five decades in music, film, and television.

  • Full Name: Reba Nell McEntire
  • Born: March 28, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma.
  • Hometown: Chockie, Oklahoma, where she grew up on an eight-thousand-acre cattle ranch.
  • Career Highlights: Multi-platinum recording artist, Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Award winner, star of the sitcom *Reba* (2001–2007), and a current coach on NBC's *The Voice*.
  • Son: Shelby Blackstock (born 1990), a professional race car driver.

Reba McEntire’s Past Marriages

Before her engagement to Rex Linn, Reba McEntire was married twice, relationships that shaped her personal life and business career:

First Husband: Charlie Battles (1976–1987)

Reba married steer wrestling champion Charlie Battles in 1976. They met through the rodeo circuit, which was a significant part of her family's life. The marriage lasted 11 years, ending in 1987. They did not have any children together.

Second Husband: Narvel Blackstock (1989–2015)

In 1989, Reba married her manager and former steel guitar player, Narvel Blackstock. This marriage was a major partnership, both personally and professionally. They welcomed their son, Shelby Blackstock, in 1990. Reba also became a stepmother to Narvel's three children from a previous marriage, including Brandon Blackstock (who was famously married to Kelly Clarkson). The couple divorced in 2015 after 26 years of marriage.

All About Rex Linn: Reba’s Fiancé and Co-Star

Reba’s current fiancé, Rex Linn, is a highly respected and recognizable face in film and television. Their relationship is a perfect blend of Hollywood and Nashville, built on a foundation of mutual respect and a shared history.

  • Full Name: Rex Maynard Linn
  • Born: November 13, 1956.
  • Notable Roles: He is best known for his long-running role as Detective Frank Tripp on the CBS drama *CSI: Miami*. He also played Kevin Wachtell on the critically acclaimed series *Better Call Saul*.
  • Current Project: Rex Linn is set to co-star with Reba in the upcoming NBC sitcom *Happy's Place*, a project that further solidifies their professional and personal bond.
  • How They Met: They first met in 1991 while filming the movie *The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw* with Kenny Rogers.

The Timeline of Reba McEntire and Rex Linn’s Engagement

The relationship between Reba and Rex is a beautiful example of a second-chance romance, proving that timing is everything. They went from professional acquaintances to a committed couple in a relatively short period, with their love story accelerating during a time when the world was slowing down.

A 30-Year Friendship

While they first met in the early 90s, they remained friends and occasionally crossed paths in the entertainment industry. Reba has often spoken about their connection, noting that they always had a special bond, even when they were both in other relationships.

The 2020 Connection

The pair reconnected in January 2020 and began dating shortly thereafter. The COVID-19 pandemic, surprisingly, brought them closer. They spent hours on the phone and on video calls, which Reba credits with allowing them to truly get to know each other on a deep, personal level before the pressures of public life intervened.

The "Sugar Tot" Pet Name

Their relationship is famously affectionate, with Rex Linn often referring to Reba as his "Sugar Tot." This sweet, personal pet name has become a trademark of their public relationship, often used in their social media posts and interviews.

The 2025 Engagement Confirmation

After five years of dating, the couple confirmed their engagement on the red carpet of the 2025 Emmy Awards. Reba, who is 70, has expressed that she feels like "God saved the best for last," indicating the profound happiness she has found with the 68-year-old actor. The engagement marks a new, exciting chapter for the country music legend, promising a future filled with love, companionship, and co-starring roles.

The fact that they are now working together on the new sitcom *Happy's Place* further highlights their commitment. Their professional collaboration on a major network show is a testament to their strong partnership, blending their personal lives with their successful careers. Fans are eagerly anticipating not only their wedding but also their on-screen chemistry in the new series.

who is reba mcentire dating
who is reba mcentire dating

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