Picture this: You're tuning into a hit show like The Voice, and suddenly, you catch a glimpse of a celebrity's real-life partner sneaking into the frame—talk about a plot twist in reality TV! But here's where it gets intriguing: Did you know this isn't just a coincidence? Let's dive into the charming cameo by Reba McEntire's fiancé, Rex Linn, and uncover the sweet story behind their romance that has fans buzzing.
Reba McEntire, the beloved country star and coach on NBC's The Voice, has been making waves with her recent sitcom Happy's Place. Filming locations for both shows are conveniently close—in fact, they're practically neighbors on the same lot. That proximity explains why her fiancé and co-star, Rex Linn, found himself popping up in an unexpected spot during the show. Keen-eyed fans who watched the very first episode of the Battle Rounds in Season 28 of The Voice might have spotted Linn strolling casually behind McEntire as she chatted directly to the camera between musical performances. It's a blink-and-you-miss-it moment, but it added a delightful personal touch to the live broadcast.
For those new to The Voice, the Battle Rounds are an exciting phase where contestants compete head-to-head, with coaches like Reba deciding who advances. This cameo happened right after the Artists Reveal Day and a duet by Dustin Dale Gaspard performing "Too Sweet" by Hozier. McEntire, brimming with enthusiasm, shared, "Having a blast today, first day of the Battles." And just behind her, there was Linn, sporting a show lanyard and looking completely at home—proof that he's no stranger to these studio environments.
If you're eager to catch the action yourself, you can watch The Voice live on Mondays and Tuesdays at 8/7c on NBC, or stream the episodes the next day on Peacock for that convenient on-demand experience.
Now, for the juicy backstory: How did Reba McEntire and Rex Linn go from professional acquaintances to a committed couple? Their paths first intersected back in 1991 on the set of a Western drama, but at that time, there wasn't any romantic spark—just a casual brush with fame. Fast forward nearly three decades, and they reconnected in January 2020 while working together on the set of the popular sitcom Young Sheldon. Reba recounted to E! News that it was all about perfect timing: "I don't know what it was; timing is everything. I've been married twice, and for some reason Rex Linn—it was just like a magnet. I had to get in there to see him at the restaurant."
But here's the part most people miss: The global pandemic threw a wrench into their budding connection, yet it also brought them closer in unexpected ways. As McEntire explained in the same interview, "Because of the pandemic, we didn't get to see each other from January to June 16 [2020]. But we created an intimacy by texting and talking on the telephone that we wouldn't have gotten if we'd been together all that time. So it was special, and it was a great way of finding out about each other without ever touching. We've been pretty much inseparable ever since June 16, 2020. It was a wonderful way to get to know each other better." Imagine building a deep bond through screens and calls—it's a modern love story that highlights how technology can foster real intimacy, even when physical distance keeps couples apart.
For a deeper look into Rex Linn's career before Happy's Place, check out this related piece on his notable TV and movie roles—it's fascinating to see the actor's diverse background.
And there's another fun tidbit: On the set of Happy's Place, Linn once demonstrated his quirky side by chopping a cucumber with his bare hands, a chaotic moment captured in this hilarious video clip. It just shows the playful energy they bring to their work and life together.
Speaking of commitment, McEntire has a refreshingly candid take on marriage that might surprise some fans. Having been married twice before, she shared with E!, "I've been married twice. After the second one dissolved, I don't have much faith in being bound by a piece of paper or a ring. I'm truly committed to Rex, so if that's something he feels totally strong about, that's fine with me. He's never been married before. So if he wants to experience that, I'm OK with that." It's a viewpoint that's all about emotional connection over formal ties, which could spark debate in today's world where traditional norms are evolving.
Catch Reba shining on The Voice every Monday and Tuesday night on NBC, and don't miss her alongside Linn when Season 2 of Happy's Place kicks off on Friday, November 7.
Now, here's where it gets controversial: In an era where marriage is often seen as the ultimate symbol of love, is Reba's laid-back stance on tying the knot a bold rejection of outdated traditions, or does it downplay the value of commitment? Some might argue that her approach prioritizes genuine partnership over societal expectations, while others could see it as risky without that "piece of paper." What do you think—does true love need a ring and vows, or is mutual devotion enough? Share your thoughts in the comments below; we'd love to hear if you agree with Reba's perspective or if you've got a different take on modern relationships!
