Over the weekend, country legend Reba McEntire quietly accepted a proposal that’s now echoing across Nashville and beyond. At 70, the beloved star said yes to her longtime partner, actor Rex Linn, in the most Reba way possible — right at their Texas ranch, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the land they love. The ring? Dazzling. The moment? Pure magic. As news spread, country stars and fans alike lit up social media with love and support, celebrating a woman whose heart, like her voice, only grows stronger with time.
This heartwarming development comes as no surprise to those who have followed McEntire’s journey through love, loss, and resilience. Born Reba Nell McEntire on March 28, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma, she grew up on a ranch, herding cattle and singing in her family’s band, the Singing McEntires. Her path to stardom began in earnest when she was discovered at the National Finals Rodeo in 1974, performing the national anthem. Signed to Mercury Records, her debut album in 1977 marked the start of a career that would span decades, earning her the moniker “Queen of Country.” With over 75 million records sold worldwide, McEntire’s hits like “Fancy,” “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia,” and “Does He Love You” (a duet with Linda Davis) have become anthems of empowerment and heartbreak.
McEntire’s influence extends far beyond music. She’s a multi-talented force, starring in her own sitcom Reba from 2001 to 2007, where she played a divorced mother navigating life’s chaos with humor and grit. The show, which aired on The WB and later in syndication, resonated with audiences for its relatable portrayal of family dynamics and earned McEntire a Golden Globe nomination. She’s also graced Broadway in Annie Get Your Gun in 2001, stepping into the role of Annie Oakley and receiving rave reviews for her spirited performance. More recently, McEntire joined the coaching panel on NBC’s The Voice in season 24, bringing her signature blend of tough love and encouragement to aspiring singers. Her entrepreneurial ventures include a line of clothing, boots, and home goods, reflecting her down-to-earth style.
Yet, amid her professional triumphs, McEntire’s personal life has been a rollercoaster. Her first marriage to steer wrestling champion Charlie Battles in 1976 ended in divorce in 1987, amid reports of infidelity and clashing ambitions. She then wed her manager, Narvel Blackstock, in 1989, with whom she shares a son, Shelby, born in 1990. Their union seemed picture-perfect, blending business and romance, but it crumbled in 2015 after 26 years. McEntire has been candid about the pain of that split, telling People magazine in 2016, “It was a situation that was mutual, but it was tough. You don’t get over it overnight.” The divorce left her wary of love, but fate had other plans.
Enter Rex Linn, the rugged actor known for roles in CSI: Miami as Detective Frank Tripp, Better Call Saul, and films like Cliffhanger and Rush Hour. Born in Spearman, Texas, on November 13, 1956, Linn’s path crossed McEntire’s as early as 1991 during the filming of the TV movie The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw, where Kenny Rogers introduced them. They remained friends for years, occasionally crossing paths in Hollywood circles. But it wasn’t until 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, that sparks flew. McEntire recounted on her podcast Living & Learning with Reba McEntire how a dinner date in New York City before the lockdown turned into something more. “We were having such a blast that we kind of kept in touch,” she shared. Linn, smitten, sent her care packages and called her “Tater Tot,” a nickname that stuck.
Their relationship blossomed quietly, away from the paparazzi’s glare. McEntire, who turned 70 in March 2025, has often spoken of how Linn brings joy and stability to her life. In a 2024 interview with E! News, she gushed, “He’s the love of my life. We laugh a lot, we cook together, we watch movies.” Linn, equally enamored, has praised McEntire’s strength and kindness. The couple shares a love for the outdoors, often retreating to their Texas ranch—a sprawling property complete with horses, gardens, and wide-open skies. It’s this sanctuary that served as the backdrop for the proposal over the weekend of September 27-28, 2025.
According to sources close to the couple, the engagement unfolded in a scene straight out of a country ballad. On Saturday evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the Texas landscape in hues of orange and pink, Linn led McEntire to a secluded spot on the ranch. Surrounded by blooming wildflowers and the gentle lowing of cattle in the distance, he got down on one knee. “Reba, you’ve been my rock, my laughter, my everything. Will you marry me?” he asked, presenting a dazzling diamond ring—a solitaire set in platinum, estimated to be worth over $500,000, with intricate engravings symbolizing their shared roots in the Lone Star State. McEntire, dressed casually in jeans and a plaid shirt, was reportedly overcome with emotion. “It was pure magic,” an insider told us. “No big production, just them, the land they love, and a lifetime of memories ahead.”
The ring itself has become a talking point. Crafted by a renowned Nashville jeweler, it features a 4-carat radiant-cut diamond flanked by smaller stones, symbolizing enduring love. McEntire flashed it subtly in a social media post on Sunday morning—a photo of her hand resting on Linn’s, captioned simply, “Yes. 💍 #Blessed.” The post garnered millions of likes within hours, sparking a wave of congratulations. This intimate proposal contrasts with the glitz of Hollywood, reflecting McEntire’s grounded personality. As she once said in a 2023 CMT interview, “I’ve had the big weddings before. This time, if it happens, it’ll be simple and true.”
News of the engagement spread like wildfire, igniting social media with an outpouring of love. Country music icons were quick to chime in. Dolly Parton, McEntire’s longtime friend and collaborator, tweeted, “Reba darlin’, couldn’t be happier for you and Rex! Love like yours is what songs are made of. 💖 #QueenReba.” Blake Shelton, who shares a playful rivalry with McEntire from The Voice, posted a humorous video: “Reba’s getting hitched? Rex, you better treat her right or I’ll write a song about it! Congrats, you two cowboys.” His wife, Gwen Stefani, added, “So much love for this power couple! Reba, you’re an inspiration. 😍”
Fans echoed the sentiment, flooding platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with messages of support. One user wrote, “Reba at 70 proving love has no age limit! #RebaEngaged,” while another shared, “From heartbreak to happily ever after—Reba’s story gives me hope. Congrats!” Hashtags like #RebaSaysYes and #McEntireLinn trended globally, with fan art depicting the couple on horseback and memes referencing McEntire’s hit “I’m a Survivor.” Even non-country celebrities joined in; Oprah Winfrey commented on McEntire’s post, “Beautiful news! Wishing you endless joy.”
This engagement marks a new chapter for McEntire, who has openly discussed her views on love post-divorce. In her 2023 memoir Not That Fancy: Simple Lessons on Living, Loving, Eating, and Dusting Off Your Boots, she wrote about embracing vulnerability: “I thought I was done with romance, but life surprises you when you least expect it.” Linn, too, has been divorced once, from Renee DeRese in 2015 after a brief marriage. Their shared experiences of heartbreak have deepened their bond, with the couple often crediting therapy and open communication for their success.
Looking ahead, wedding plans remain under wraps, but insiders hint at a spring 2026 ceremony, possibly at the Texas ranch or in Nashville. “It’ll be intimate, with family and close friends,” a source revealed. McEntire’s son Shelby, now 35 and a race car driver, is thrilled, reportedly joking that he’ll walk his mom down the aisle. The couple’s blended interests—McEntire’s music and Linn’s acting—could lead to joint projects, like a rom-com or a duet album. McEntire teased as much in a recent appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, saying, “Who knows? Rex inspires me every day.”
McEntire’s engagement at 70 is more than celebrity gossip; it’s a beacon of hope in an age-obsessed culture. As women in entertainment face scrutiny over aging, McEntire defies norms, maintaining a vibrant career and personal life. Her recent album Stronger Than the Truth (2019) and ongoing tours showcase her timeless appeal, while her role on The Voice introduces her to new generations. “Age is just a number,” she told AARP in 2024. “I’m happier now than ever.”
Rex Linn, often the quieter half of the duo, has spoken about his admiration for McEntire’s resilience. In a 2022 podcast interview, he said, “Reba’s been through hell and back, but she comes out shining. That’s why I love her.” Their story began as friendship, evolved into romance during isolation, and now culminates in commitment. It’s a testament to second (or third) chances, proving that love can bloom in the autumn of life.
As Nashville buzzes with excitement, fans speculate on everything from the wedding gown (perhaps designed by McEntire’s friend Trisha Yearwood) to honeymoon destinations (Hawaii or a European tour). Country radio stations have ramped up playlists of McEntire’s love songs, with DJs dedicating airtime to the news. “Reba’s engagement feels like a win for all of us,” said one SiriusXM host. “She’s our queen, and she’s found her king.”
In reflecting on this milestone, McEntire’s journey reminds us of her lyrics from “Consider Me Gone”: “If I’m not the one thing you can’t stand to lose / If I’m not that arrow to the heart of you.” With Linn, she’s found that arrow, that irreplaceable love. At 70, Reba McEntire isn’t just surviving—she’s thriving, her heart as strong as her voice. Congratulations to the happy couple; may their ranch sunsets be endless.
But let’s delve deeper into the couple’s history to understand why this moment feels so poignant. McEntire and Linn’s paths first intertwined in the early ’90s, but timing wasn’t right. Linn was building his acting career, appearing in guest spots on shows like JAG and The Young and the Restless, while McEntire was at the peak of her music dominance, winning Grammys and CMA Awards. Their reconnection in 2020 came at a perfect juncture—both single, both seeking companionship amid global uncertainty.
During the pandemic, they quarantined together, cooking meals (Linn’s chili is legendary, per McEntire) and binge-watching Westerns. “We discovered we were soulmates,” McEntire said in a 2021 People interview. Their public debut as a couple was subtle, with McEntire mentioning Linn on social media in October 2020. Since then, they’ve been inseparable, attending events like the Academy of Country Music Awards and supporting each other’s work. Linn even guest-starred on McEntire’s ABC series Big Sky in 2022, playing her on-screen love interest—a meta nod to their real-life romance.
The Texas ranch, purchased by McEntire in the early 2000s, has been a haven for the couple. Spanning hundreds of acres, it includes a main house with rustic decor, a guest cottage, and stables. “It’s where we recharge,” Linn told Architectural Digest in 2024. The proposal spot? A hilltop overlook where they often watch stars. Friends say Linn planned it for months, enlisting Shelby’s help to keep it secret.
Social media’s role in amplifying the news can’t be overstated. Within 24 hours, McEntire’s post had over 5 million views. Fan accounts compiled montages of the couple’s moments, from red carpet appearances to candid ranch snaps. One viral thread on X detailed “Why Reba and Rex Are #RelationshipGoals,” citing their humor and mutual respect.
Celebrity reactions continued to pour in. Carrie Underwood posted, “Reba, you’ve always been my idol. So happy for your happiness!” Tim McGraw and Faith Hill sent a joint message: “Love conquers all. Cheers to forever!” Even non-country stars like Reese Witherspoon, who worked with McEntire on Sing, commented, “Texas love story—beautiful!”
McEntire’s engagement also sparks discussions on aging and romance in the spotlight. At 70, she’s challenging stereotypes, much like Helen Mirren or Jane Fonda. “Women don’t expire,” she quipped in a 2025 Vogue interview. Her fitness routine—yoga, hiking, and ranch work—keeps her energetic, while Linn, 68, shares her active lifestyle.
As the dust settles, questions arise: Will there be a prenup? (Likely, given McEntire’s $95 million net worth.) Honeymoon plans? (Perhaps a safari, as Linn loves adventure.) But for now, the focus is on the joy. Reba McEntire, survivor extraordinaire, has said yes to love once more. In a world of fleeting romances, hers is a melody that endures.
