The Surprise Twist: 5 Shocking Facts About Reba McEntire’s Current Marital Status And Engagement At 70

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As of late December 2025, country music icon Reba McEntire is not married, but she is happily engaged to her longtime boyfriend, actor Rex Linn. After over five years of dating, the couple confirmed their engagement in a major way at the 2025 Emmy Awards, marking a thrilling new chapter for the legendary singer. The news has captivated fans, especially given the couple's candid approach to their relationship and the fact that they are taking their time to plan their future.

This engagement follows a significant period of change in McEntire’s life, including a high-profile divorce and a career resurgence that includes a coaching role on NBC’s The Voice and a new sitcom, Happy's Place, where she co-stars with her fiancé. The blend of professional and personal happiness has made her relationship with Linn one of the most talked-about stories in country music.

Reba McEntire: Full Biography and Relationship History

Reba Nell McEntire, known universally as Reba, is one of the most successful female artists in country music history, often referred to as "The Queen of Country."

  • Full Name: Reba Nell McEntire
  • Born: March 28, 1955 (Age 70 as of 2025)
  • Birthplace: McAlester, Oklahoma, U.S.
  • Occupation: Country Music Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Television Producer
  • Career Highlights: Over 75 million records sold worldwide, multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, star of the sitcom Reba, and current coach on The Voice.

Reba's Previous Marriages and Family Life

Before her relationship with Rex Linn, Reba McEntire was married and divorced twice, experiences she has often spoken about with honesty and grace.

First Marriage: Charlie Battles (1976–1987)

Reba’s first husband was Charlie Battles, a steer wrestling champion and rancher. They were married in 1976, early in her career. The marriage lasted for 11 years, ending in divorce in 1987. The couple did not have any children together. Reba has noted that the marriage was challenging as her career began to take off, creating a strain on their ranching life.

Second Marriage: Narvel Blackstock (1989–2015)

Her second marriage was to her manager and former steel guitar player, Narvel Blackstock. They married in 1989, and their professional and personal partnership defined her career for over two decades. This union produced her only biological child, son Shelby Steven McEntire Blackstock, born in 1990, who is now a professional race car driver. Reba also became a stepmother to Narvel’s three children from a previous marriage, including Brandon Blackstock, who was famously married to singer Kelly Clarkson. Their divorce in 2015 after 26 years of marriage was a shock to the country music world, marking a major turning point in her life.

The Truth About Reba McEntire’s Current Marital Status: Engaged, Not Yet Married

Despite persistent rumors and fan speculation, Reba McEntire’s current relationship status is engaged. The confusion often stems from the public's excitement and anticipation for her third walk down the aisle. The relationship with actor Rex Linn has been a source of immense joy and stability for the star since they began dating in 2020.

The couple, who first met on the set of the movie The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw in 1991, reconnected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their early dating involved long phone calls and virtual dates, which they have credited with building a deep, emotional connection before their relationship became physical. They celebrated their fifth anniversary in January 2025, a testament to their strong bond.

The Surprise Engagement and The 2025 Emmys Confirmation

The biggest news came on Christmas Eve 2024, when Rex Linn proposed to Reba McEntire. The engagement remained a private, cherished event until the couple made a subtle but significant public announcement at the 2025 Emmy Awards in September. When an E! News reporter referred to them as "fiancé and fiancée," they both smiled and nodded, confirming the happy news to the world. Reba, who turned 70 in 2025, has described the relationship as a gift, saying she "feels like a teenager" and that "God saved the best for last."

Rex Linn, known for his roles on CSI: Miami and Young Sheldon, is also Reba’s co-star in her upcoming NBC sitcom, Happy's Place, solidifying their professional and personal partnership. This shared experience has only deepened their connection, making them one of Hollywood's most beloved power couples.

Why Reba and Rex Linn Are Not Rushing the Wedding

One of the most unique aspects of Reba and Rex Linn’s relationship is their shared philosophy on marriage planning. Despite being engaged since late 2024, the couple has been vocal about not rushing the wedding. This decision is rooted in their maturity, their contentment with their current status, and a desire to simply enjoy their time together without the pressure of a grand event.

In interviews following the engagement confirmation, Reba stated that they are "taking it slow." Both have had previous marriages and understand the complexities that come with a formal union. Their focus is on their happiness, their blended family (including Reba's son Shelby Blackstock and Rex's own children), and their thriving careers. The country legend has made it clear that while they are committed to a future together, the timing of the ceremony is secondary to the quality of their relationship.

Key Entities and Topics Related to Reba’s Love Life and Career

Reba McEntire’s life is filled with significant figures and milestones that contribute to her enduring topical authority:

  • Rex Linn: Her current fiancé, an actor and co-star.
  • Narvel Blackstock: Her second husband and long-time manager.
  • Charlie Battles: Her first husband, a steer wrestler.
  • Shelby Blackstock: Her only son, a professional race car driver.
  • Brandon Blackstock: Her former stepson and ex-husband to Kelly Clarkson.
  • The Voice: Her current role as a coach on the popular singing competition.
  • Happy's Place: Her upcoming NBC sitcom co-starring Rex Linn.
  • Engagement Ring: The stunning ring she received on Christmas Eve 2024.
  • Divorce Settlement: The highly publicized split from Narvel Blackstock in 2015.
  • Oklahoma Roots: Her deep connection to her home state and ranching background.

In conclusion, while Reba McEntire is not currently married, she is in a deeply committed and blissful engagement to Rex Linn. Their relationship is a heartwarming story of finding true love later in life, proving that the best chapters can begin at any age. The wedding date remains a mystery, but their happiness is an open book.

is reba mcentire married
is reba mcentire married

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