Author: Ms Bich

Here’s Why Dolly Parton And Her Husband Of Over 50 Years Are Rarely Seen Together

Why are Dolly Parton and her husband rarely seen together in public?

Fans all over the world know and love Dolly Parton, and she can charm just about anyone. In fact, the same can also be said of her husband, who once said meeting Dolly was love at first sight.

The famous songstress once turned down a big-name star, and she’s always stayed true to herself. But she’s also stayed with the same man all the time she’s been in the spotlight. Dolly’s been with her husband since 1964, which means their marriage has spanned over 50 years.

Who Is Dolly Parton’s Husband, Carl Dean?

First off, who is Dolly’s husband, and what does he do? He’s not in the music industry, or in Hollywood at all. Though he and Dolly met in Nashville, Carl wasn’t there looking for fame or his next gig.

For many years, Carl has worked in asphalt paving, and he doesn’t seem to get involved in Dolly’s work much at all. And the singer has claimed that’s exactly why their relationship works so well.

She has managers to handle her business, while she gets to enjoy her downtime and life with Carl when it’s not showtime. Which hints at the simple reason why Dolly and Carl are hardly ever seen in public together: Carl is just busy living his life.

Why Don’t Dolly Parton And Her Husband Go Out In Public?

Dolly and her husband might be more alike than fans think. It seems as if Dolly’s never really been about her fame. Instead, she’s all about helping her fans and her community.

While she appreciated the gesture, Parton declined a statue of herself and would rather her fans’ efforts go toward worthy causes. And the singer herself operates an organization that donates books to children — she also has many other philanthropic projects.

So it’s not that surprising that both Dolly and her husband like to keep to themselves. And that’s the simple reason why they’re hardly photographed together.

Does Dolly’s Husband Like Her Fame?

For Dolly, her career is just a job, and her husband is her life. Though the two never had children, they’ve maintained a close relationship that has clearly survived Nashville, Hollywood, and everything in between.

Through it all, Dolly knows she has her husband’s support, even if he does shy away from the cameras.

In fact, the singer seems to understand her man and sums it up perfectly, “He knows if he ever started doing interviews and if people started photographing him and all that, then he wouldn’t be able to go to the auto parts store or the ballgames and the places he wants to go without bein’ bothered.”

Fans Think Miley Cyrus Takes After Godmother Dolly Parton In Specific Ways

There are many similarities between Dolly Parton and her Goddaughter Miley Cyrus, not all of them immediately obvious.

By now, most fans know about the connection between two of America’s most famous singers. When Dolly Parton, queen of Country music, appeared on the tween Disney series Hannah Montana in 2006, they were excited to learn that she was Miley’s Godmother.

And fans say it’s amazing just how similar Dolly and Miley are.

Like many other singers, Miley’s dad Billy Ray Cyrus had a helping hand from Dolly early on in his music career. Soon after his hit song ‘Achy Breaky Heart‘ was released, Dolly included him as the opening act on one of her tours.

In fact, the singers got on so well, that at one time they were rumored to be in a relationship. Billy Ray went on to star as the male lead in the music video for Parton’s song “Romeo.”

Their friendship continued over the years, and when Billy’s baby daughter was born, he asked Dolly to be her godmother.

Miley & Dolly Have Worked Together On A Number Of Occasions

Apart from the episodes on Hannah Montana, they’ve joined forces a number of times. When Miley Cyrus was 17 years old, she teamed up with her Godmother in a duet of her 1973 hit “Jolene”.

Fans went wild when the duo sang the number, which has been named one of the top 10 Country songs of all time, as part of the celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the Dollywood theme park. The pair reprised their performance when they teamed up to sing the song on The Voice in 2016. Miley has gone on to add it to her repertoire.

The pair also worked together in 2020, when Parton asked Cyrus to join her for a song on her A Holly Dolly Christmas album.

Fans Say Miley And Dolly Have Physical Similarities

When pics from Miley’s Forbes 30 Under 30 shoot were posted, fans were struck by the physical similarities to Dolly.

Plus, Dolly Parton is known for being a great humanitarian, and it seems she’s inspired the same trait in her Goddaughter. Miley founded the Happy Hippie Foundation, which focuses on youth homelessness, the LGBTQ community, and other vulnerable populations. She also supports organizations like Amnesty International, amfAR, and The Elton John AIDS Foundation, among others.

While the Wrecking Ball singer still has a way to go to reach the number of philanthropic outreaches her Godmother has been involved in, she’s certainly made a good start.

Both Started Performing At A Young Age

Yet another similarity between the two is the start of their careers. Both singers have been in the entertainment industry for most of their lives.

Dolly started performing professionally at the age of 10, appearing on local television and radio shows in Knoxville. Three years later, she made her Grand Ole Opry debut.

Although she was 12 when Disney’s Hannah Montana catapulted her into worldwide fame, Miley’s acting debut in an episode of her father’s television series Doc two years earlier at the age of 11. The same year, she also had a small role in Tim Burton’s Big Fish.

There’s Even A Link Between Dolly And Hannah Montana

Even in her breakthrough character of Hanna Montana another similarity between Miley and her Godmother pops up: In the series about an average teenage girl who has a secret life as a famous pop singer, the Disney star wore a wig to differentiate the two characters. Miley Stewart became Hannah Montana when she put on the blonde rock star tresses over her brunette hair.

While Miley gladly ditched her wigs as part of her transformation from the Disney character, Dolly Parton loves wearing wigs. And apparently, she has so many, she could wear a different one every day of the year.

Both Dolly Parton and Hannah Montana wigs became top sellers for a time.

There Are Also Many Differences Between The Two

One area where the stars are not similar is in their love lives. Parton married her husband Carl Dean when she was just 20, and he was 23. Today, they are still going strong, after more than 5 decades together.

Miley hasn’t been as lucky in love. Her on-again-off-again relationship with Liam Hemsworth constantly hits the headlines, and fans accused The Climb singer of playing with her ex-husband’s feelings.

Conversely, when she’s not on stage, Dolly is happy to stay out of the spotlight. She’s happy to stay home reading, and spending time with her husband Carl Dean, and has always made sure their lives are private; Dolly and her husband are rarely seen together.

In contrast, since leaving Hannah Montana behind, Miley has been the subject of countless headlines and controversial moments. From being criticized for rumored drug use to what some call her ridiculous tattoos and tensions with dad Billy Ray, who came to hate the Hannah Montana series, she’s attracted constant attention.

Miley Shocked Her Godmother

Dolly has admitted she has sometimes been shocked at Miley’s transformation, but also that she completely understands why her fairy Goddaughter did what she did.

“She was very proud of the work she did as Hannah Montana, but people were gonna leave her there forever, “ the Country star told People “And she was just smotherin’ and chokin’ in it. So she felt she had to do something completely drastic. And she did.”

Perhaps it’s fitting that the only song on Miley’s 2017 album Younger Now not completely her own was a track she co-wrote with Dolly.

8 Times Dolly Parton Showed She Is A Saint

This legend prioritizes making the world a better place, and Dolly Parton is certainly among them.

Dolly Parton is one of the most accomplished celebrities of all time. Her successful music career set her up for life. She is a household name all over the world, and it is not just because she is a good singer.

Dolly Parton knows that she can’t take her wealth with her. Therefore, she spends most of her time and money on charities and has even created a bunch of her own charitable foundations. Here are some highlights that show that this country singer is a saint.

8 The Dollywood Foundation

The establishment of the Dollywood Foundation in 1988 was the start of many philanthropic adventures that Dolly Parton would lead. This foundation is named after her theme park, Dollywood, which is in Tennessee. She established this foundation to help as many children as possible achieve academic success.

7 The Buddy Program

Dolly Parton established the Buddy Program in the late 80s, shortly after establishing the Dollywood Foundation. Maintaining the focus of helping students achieve academic success, the Buddy Program focused on helping students in her hometown graduate. She told middle school students to “buddy-up” with another student, and she would reward them with a scholarship if they both graduated. This initiative drastically increased the graduation rate in her hometown.

6 $500 Scholarships For High Schoolers

In a further effort to help students in Sevier County, Tennessee, Dolly’s hometown, graduate, she offered a $500 scholarship to any student that wished to attend the local university after high school. This helped boost graduation rates as well as increase college attendance compared to previous years in this county.

5 Eagle Mountain Sanctuary

Dolly Parton wants to help the world in as many ways as possible. At her theme park, Dollywood, Parton established the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary in 1991. It is managed by the American Eagle Foundation and houses many bald eagles. She wanted to provide protection for the endangered eagle species as a way to honor her country and help make the world a better place.

4 The Imagination Library

This foundation was established by Dolly Parton in the mid-90s. Its main goal is to provide books and reading materials to children before they start school, for free. Parton started this non-profit organization as a tribute to her father who never learned to read.

3 The Dolly Parton Scholarship

To further help graduating students in Sevier County, Dolly Parton started giving the Dolly Parton Scholarship in the early 2000s. Every year, fifteen graduating seniors receive $15,000 for their college pursuits. Dolly aims to give as many students as she can the opportunity for a successful college education.

2 Chasing Rainbows Award

Dolly Parton’s support of education does not end with the students. The Dollywood Foundation presents the Chasing Rainbows Award to exceptional teachers across the country. Along with the recognition, the winner gets to visit Dollywood as Dolly Parton’s special guest.

1 $1 Million Donation To A Children’s Hospital

As if Dolly Parton had not already helped so many people in her life, she donated a million dollars to the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in 2017. She wants to use her wealth to help people while she is still alive. She made this donation to honor her own niece who was treated at this hospital.

The Truth About Dolly Parton’s Surprise Cameo On ‘Grace And Frankie’ Finale

Behind the scenes, Dolly Parton has quite the relationship with Grace and Frankie stars Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin.

Netflix‘s feel-good “groundbreaking” series, Grace and Frankie just released its final season, and fans are still talking about Dolly Parton’s cameo in a hilarious scene with her besties, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Many thought it was a great reunion for the iconic trio who previously starred in the 1980 film 9 to 5. Here’s the truth about that cameo and the actors’ decades-long friendship.

Inside Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, & Lily Tomlin’s Time In ‘9 To 5’

9 to 5 was actually Dolly Parton’s film debut. She played Miss Doralee Rhodes who “fantasizes about lassoing her sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot boss.” Tomlin played Violet Newstead who’s a widow and mother of four, struggling to get the promotion she clearly deserves. Fonda played the uncharacteristic Judy Bernly, a nervous divorcee who has no idea what she’s doing in her life. The Barbarella star was also the mastermind behind the comedy. She was inspired by her old friend, Karen Nussbaum’s organization for working women, 9to5

In a 1981 Playgirl interview with the Jolene hitmaker, she said that Fonda “was real helpful” throughout the film. She said the movie star gave her valuable acting tips such as, “Don’t talk on the same voice level. Don’t get too excited when you’ve got nowhere to go. Don’t start out high. Make a definite look, don’t move your eyes around.” Fonda even gave her advice for her future movie projects. Parton was given “names of directors to think about.” The actress told her: “I’d like to see you someday do something really serious and dramatic. Not comedy, not funny.

When asked who she was closer to, Parton said that she had the chance to get to know Tomlin more than Fonda. “Actually, I felt a bit closer to Lily during the film because I had a chance to get to know her, and Jane had so much business stuff to do,” she explained. “And Lily and I are both with the same agency now. I spent more time talking to Lily. With Jane, we got to be close, but we really hadn’t gotten together enough to totally relax and just be pals. I have such respect and admiration for Jane. I’m not star-struck, but I know when a person’s great.”

The Truth About Dolly Parton’s ‘Grace And Frankie’ Cameo

In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Fonda described Parton’s cameo on Grace and Frankie as “beyond perfect.” She added that the singer stole that scene with her personality. “It’s not just the fact that Dolly shows up. It’s how she shows up. What the story is that brings her on. It’s just beyond perfect,” said the 84-year-old actress. “We were both just so moved when she turned that chair around and there she was.” She and Tomlin previously talked about Parton’s role in the series finale, saying that “it seemed right” to have her there.

“She’s on the last episode. And that was one of our favorite episodes,” Tomlin told People. “We really loved doing that and having Dolly there. We’d done things together in the recent past, like presented on award shows and stuff like that. It seemed right.” Then she told Parton: “Thank God you showed up. It was almost too late!” Tomlin also admitted to being “emotional” about the show’s end. “We are sorry to finish it… So, it will be very tough watching this last season,” she said.

Inside Dolly Parton’s Friendship With Jane Fonda & Lily Tomlin

The three have been friends for over 40 years now. In Parton’s A&E documentary, Biography: Dolly, Fonda teared up just talking about the musician’s impact. “It’s like through her songs she opens her arms wide and embraces such a broad swath of people that don’t always feel seen, and it’s why people love her,” the actress said while wiping her tears. “And it’s why when we’ve been in public with her, her fans will drive for hours to be where she is. I’ve been with a lot of big movie stars. I’ve never seen the devotion that her fans have for her in anyone else. It’s quite extraordinary.

Parton also expressed her admiration for Fonda’s work as an activist on The View. “She’s always been out protesting something all of her life,” she said of her friend. “I wouldn’t get out in the streets but I kinda contribute in my own way. I’m an entertainer and I do it a little different. Everyone’s got their own way of making their points. I try to do it my own and they do it theirs.” In 2017, the 9 to 5 trio had a mini-reunion when they presented the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie. “We still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying hypocritical bigot!” Tomlin joked onstage.

“‘Jolene’ Is One Of My Favorite Songs” — Dr. Dre Says He’d Love To Produce A Dolly Parton Album

Youtube/ Jimmy Kimmel Live

I honestly wouldn’t be mad at this…

I mean, if Snoop Dogg and Willie Nelson can work together, I don’t see why Dr. Dre and Dolly Parton. couldn’t.

The legendary hip hop producer appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live last night, where the host asked him if he’d ever consider working with artists from other genres. He’s known for working with people like Snoop Dogg, Eminem, 2Pac, 50 Cent and more, though he explained that it’s not uncommon for him to have artist from outside of that world reach out about working with him.

Dr. Dre explained that he’s not against it and it would depend on the circumstances, though at the end of the day, his “love is with hip hop”:

“Yes, all the time but, you know, my love is with hip hop. It really depends on the relationship. If I meet somebody and we click, or what have you, then I’ll go in the studio and get down.”

Kimmel continued, throwing out the one and only Mrs. Dolly as an example of an artist that seems the opposite of his musical taste, and Dr. Dre lit up, quickly explaining that he would love to produce a Dolly Parton album and “Jolene” is one of his favorite songs:

“I love Dolly Parton. Yes, absolutely. ‘Jolene’ is one of my favorite songs.”

A man after my own heart…

Though they clearly have very different styles, purely for curiosity’s sake and knowing how individually talented and legendary they both are, I’d love to hear what they would come up with.

Probably a pipe dream, but still, it’s kinda fun to think about and cool to see the respect Dolly has from such an iconic music figure well outside of the country genre.

You can watch the full interview here:

Clearly Dre has great taste… turn it up:

“Jolene”

Reba McEntire Is Head Over Heels for Boyfriend Rex Linn: ‘I Love Him with All My Heart’ (Exclusive)

The country artist tells PEOPLE they “really got to know each other” before getting physical as they began dating virtually through the pandemic

Rex Linn (left) and Reba McEntire in New York City on Oct. 9, 2023. Photo:Kristin Callahan/Shutterstock

Reba McEntire is in love.

Speaking with PEOPLE ahead of her performance at Bring Change to Mind’s 11th Revels & Revelations event in N.Y.C. on Monday, the country superstar did not hold back her feelings for her boyfriend of three years, Rex Linn.

“He’s a very supportive man, I love him with all my heart,” McEntire, 68, tells PEOPLE.

Taking the time to get to know each other after meeting in January 2020, the “Fancy” singer says they really had no other choice, as Linn resided in L.A. and she was in Oklahoma and Nashville during the pandemic.

“We didn’t see each other again [that year] until June 16. So it was telephones, Zooms, texting, so we got to really know each other before it was any physical contact,” she explains.

Rex Linn (left) and Reba McEntire in New York City on Oct. 9, 2023.Noam Galai/Getty

This year, McEntire signed on as a coach on The Voice, and detailed the loving ways that Linn, 66, helps her relax after a long day of filming.

“Rex meets me at the garage when I get out of the car,” she shares. “He’ll fix me a drink if I need it.”

“He’ll sit there and talk to me because I’ve talked my head off all day long so he knows I just need to relax and chill,” McEntire adds, noting that the actor even rubs her back.

The country star expanded further on their sweet relationship during an appearance Wednesday on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. Two fans virtually joined her and host Andy Cohen, asking McEntire if she would ever get married to her “Sugar Tot.”

“My Sugar Tot? That would be up to him,” she responded, repeating her pet nickname for Linn. “I’ve been married twice, he’s never been married, so if he wants to, that’s totally up to him.”

Pressing further, Cohen asked if it was if it was a “headscratcher” for her when they first met that he had never been married.

“Yeah, well, kind of,” the Not That Fancy author admitted sincerely after a moment of thought, but assured Cohen that they “talked it out.”

Changing gears, Cohen asked how fans react went they see her out and about in Nashville.

“I’ll be in the grocery store and they’ll come by and say, ‘Reba?’ I say, ‘Yeah.’ They say, ‘Can I get a picture?’ And I say, ‘Yeah, but I look like hammer of death, but yeah, let’s take a picture,’ ” McEntire joked.

“Seeing you in Nashville would be like seeing Mickey Mouse at Disneyland for me,” Cohen said.

“Like, yeah,” the down-to-earth star nodded nonchalantly with a shrug. “Yeah.”

Elsewhere in the interview, McEntire shared the most-used app in her phone: “DoorDash!”

Reba McEntire Jokes That Rex Linn ‘Wants to Bet’ on Her Super Bowl National Anthem Length

The country superstar shared a hilarious new clip on Instagram showing the pair mouthing audio from a popular ‘Friends’ scene

Rex Linn and Reba McEntire. Photo:Reba McEntire / Instagram

Reba McEntire and Rex Linn may be holding onto some Super Bowl secrets!

On Saturday, the country music star posted a hilarious clip on Instagram where she and her partner recreated a popular scene from Friends, just one day before she’s scheduled to sing the national anthem at the big game.

“When Rex wants to bet on the national anthem length,” McEntire, 68, jokingly captioned the video, which shows the pair mouthing some famous dialogue from Friends characters Joey and Rachel.

The audio they used in the clip was pulled from the season 5 episode, “The One with All the Resolutions,” where Joey and Rachel go back and forth about keeping the same secret. So while it’s unclear what Linn, 67, actually knows about McEntire’s upcoming Super Bowl performance, the two are still having fun with the secrecy of the gig.

Ahead of her “Star-Spangled Banner” performance at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Sunday, McEntire opened up to PEOPLE about what the moment means to her.

“Oh, I’m so excited. You know, it’s not about me. It’s about everybody who has worked so hard to get to the Super Bowl, and my job is to bring the patriotism,” McEntire said earlier this week during a discussion about her new collaboration with Sonic.

As McEntire described her role, she’ll be “singing for not only the people who are going to be performing and playing on the field that day,” but also those who’ve worked “so hard to ensure our freedom and try to have as much peace on earth as we can.”

McEntire also shared that while the Kansas City Chiefs face off against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, she’ll have kind words if she runs into Taylor Swift, who fans are hoping will be present to cheer on boyfriend Travis Kelce.

“I’m going to tell her congratulations on the Grammys. My gosh, she took that thing by storm,” McEntire said of Swift earning trophies for best pop vocal album and album of the year for Midnights at the 2024 Grammy Awards.

“I’m thrilled to death with their relationship. Travis is a cutie pie,” she added, noting that she’s “excited” to potentially cross paths with a few athletes on Sunday.

Rex Linn and Reba McEntire attend Revels & Revelations 11 hosted by Bring Change to Mind in New York City in October 2023.Noam Galai/Getty

Additional performances at the Super Bowl include Post Malone’s rendition of “America the Beautiful” and Andra Day’s performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” while Usher will of course headline the halftime show.

Usher has also teased some special guests for the gig, telling Entertainment Tonight that he would be a “fool” to perform his Confessions hit “Yeah!” without the help of featured artists Ludacris and Lil Jon.

“I would be a fool to not play ‘Yeah!’ — let’s just start there,” Usher said. “It would be foolish to make it all the way to Las Vegas, Jon is here, Luda’s here, and not play ‘Yeah!’ “

The Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers will face off in Super Bowl LVIII, airing on CBS on Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Reba McEntire and Rex Linn’s Relationship Timeline

Reba McEntire and Rex Linn first met in 1991 and reconnected in 2020

Photo: Phillip Faraone/Getty

Reba McEntire and Rex Linn met in 1991 on The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw
They began dating in June 2020 after reconnecting in January and have remained “inseparable” ever since
McEntire revealed in 2023 that they bonded over tater tots, which is her nickname for Linn

Reba McEntire and her boyfriend, actor Rex Linn, have known each other since 1991, but it wasn’t until 2020 that their relationship became romantic.

The country singer was previously married to Charlie Battles from 1976 to 1987, as well as her manager Narvel Blackstock from 1989 to 2015. From 2017 to 2019, she dated Anthony “Skeeter” Lasuzzo.

After reconnecting with Linn following the death of her mother and growing closer with the CSI: Miami actor during quarantine, McEntire and Linn began dating, and they have been “inseparable” ever since.

In October 2023, McEntire told PEOPLE that she loves Linn “with all my heart.” She added that “he’s a very supportive man” and shared how he shows up for her after she’s had a long work day.

“Rex meets me at the garage when I get out of the car. He’ll fix me a drink if I need it,” McEntire said. “He’ll sit there and talk to me because I’ve talked my head off all day long so he knows I just need to relax and chill.”

In February 2024, McEntire shared that her relationship with Linn is very romantic. “Every day is Valentine’s Day for us. We’re just silly, goofy people in our 60s that love life [and] love each other,” she told PEOPLE. “We have fun. We’re dorky, goofy, and we have similar interests in just about everything, so it’s just fun all the time.”

From raising chickens together to their red carpet debut, here’s everything to know about Reba McEntire and Rex Linn’s relationship.

1991: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn meet

During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, McEntire revealed that she met Linn while they both were working on the Kenny Rogers movie The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw.

“We kept in contact over the years, we both know the same people,” McEntire explained. “So it was just like good friends getting back together and having dinner … then we started texting and talking on the telephone and getting to know each other better during the quarantine.”

January 23, 2020: Rex Linn shares a photo of Reba McEntire

Rex Linn Instagram

In January 2020, Linn shared a photo of him and McEntire out to dinner.

“Had a fantastic dinner with this Oklahoma girl. Tater Tots and Ketchup included,” he wrote in the caption. At the time, it was not yet clear if the pair were romantically involved.

October 2020: Reba McEntire reveals she is dating Rex Linn

McEntire revealed that she and Linn were dating during an episode of her podcast Living & Learning. The “I’m a Survivor” singer described her beau as “very interesting, very funny [and] very smart.”

She continued, “It’s good to have a person to talk to, laugh with, get into subjects about what’s going on. Discussions about our past, our family, funny stories, him being an actor, me being an actress. And he’s very into my music. I’m very into his career.”

McEntire also shared the couple had been dating for around six months.

“Whatever happens in the future, we’re very stable,” McEntire added. “I look forward to having more things to look forward to.”

October 19, 2020: Rex Linn shares a snap of his “Tater Tot” Reba McEntire

Rex Linn Instagram

Linn shared another photo of the couple snuggled up together on a cooler outside and revealed his nickname for her in the caption. “❤️❤️TATER TOT. Angel on the ground (and on a cooler),” he wrote.

October 28, 2020: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn share a photo of their chickens

Rex Linn Instagram

The Oklahoma-born actress has always had a love for animals, particularly her farm animals. By October 2020, it appeared that Linn, who hails from Texas, was having no trouble fitting in on the farm.

Both McEntire and Linn shared the same photo of themselves posing with one of their chickens. They penned the same caption, as well, which read: “The Tots, Sugar and Tater, have taken up farming. Meet Mr. Pecker. Winner winner, chicken dinner.”

November 10, 2020: Rex Linn shares a behind-the-scenes photo of Reba McEntire

The following month, Linn shared an Instagram photo of McEntire rocking a face shield and glasses covered in rhinestones ahead of the 2020 CMA Awards. McEntire was preparing to co-host the event with Darius Rucker.

“Blinged out for the CMA’S!” he wrote.

November 11, 2020: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn make their red carpet debut

ABC via Getty

The couple made their red carpet debut at the Country Music Awards show. McEntire wore a sparkly gown, while Linn sported a blue tux jacket.

“We’re both excited that [Rex is] going to be there with me,” McEntire told PEOPLE ahead of the event.

McEntire also shared photos of the couple before and after the show.

“From red carpet to coffee camp! Sugar and Tater Tot!” she captioned the post.

December 27, 2020: Reba McEntire shares a selfie with Rex Linn and her donkey

Reba Instagram

That December, McEntire shared a selfie with Linn and her donkey, Poncho.

“When Poncho got wind of the picture of Rex and me with Mr. Pecker, he got his feelings hurt. So here is Poncho,” she wrote in the caption.

January 8, 2021: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn have a movie date

Rex Linn Instagram

The couple had their first movie date in January 2021 when they attended a private screening of the Tom Hanks film News of the World. McEntire shared several photos of her and Linn enjoying the reclining chairs and snacks in an empty theater.

“AMC offers private screenings … we took them up on it. First movie date!” she wrote.

April 25, 2021: Rex Linn promotes Reba McEntire’s song “Somehow You Do”

Linn shared his appreciation for McEntire’s music with a post about the latest music video for her single, “Somehow You Do.”

“Tater Tot’s new video. Already climbing the charts!” he captioned the video.

August 2021: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn contract COVID-19

In August 2021, McEntire announced on a TikTok livestream that she and Linn had contracted COVID-19.

“I just want to say one thing: this has been a hard year and it’s getting rougher again,” she said. “You guys, please stay safe. Wear your mask. Do what you have to do. Stay home.”

She warned her fans about the virus and its effects. “It’s not fun to get this. I did get it. Rex and I got it and it’s not fun. You don’t feel good,” McEntire continued. “We were both vaccinated and we still got it, so stay safe, stay home and be protected the best you can.”

September 4, 2021: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn have a concert date night

Reba Instagram

In an Instagram post, McEntire shared that the couple attended a concert by Broadway actor and Christmas in Tune costar Norm Lewis.

“We had a great time listening to @thenormlewis last night at @tennesseepac!!!” she wrote. “Norm is one of my co-stars in our #ChristmasInTune movie coming to @lifetimetv later this year!”

October 14, 2021: Reba McEntire shares that she and Rex Linn have been “inseparable” since they started dating

During an appearance on Today, McEntire discussed the early days of her and Linn’s relationship, revealing that Linn supported her after the death of her mother, Jacqueline McEntire.

“Rex and I have known each other since ’91 when we were in The Gambler movie together with Kenny Rogers and then have known each other, kept in contact,” she said. “And then in 2020 when Mama got sick, he called me.”

She continued, “We’d gotten to see each other before because we’re both on Young Sheldon. So starting in March of 2020, we just kept talking and visiting and finally got together, see each other in June. And we’ve been pretty much inseparable ever since.”

October 24, 2021: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn discuss their relationship

Later that month, McEntire had her boyfriend on an episode of her podcast, and the couple further discussed the beginning of their “very special relationship.”

During the episode, McEntire and Linn opened up about how they were able to bond and grow close despite not being in physical contact with each other due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They also shared their coffee date tradition, which they dubbed “Coffee Camp.”

“It was a very special relationship, us getting to know each other without any physical aspect to it at all,” McEntire said. “We’d talk in the morning, we started ‘Coffee Camp’ while I was staying in Oklahoma… We haven’t missed a ‘Coffee Camp’ since March 16.”

Linn added, “I was in California, she was in Tennessee and sometimes my ‘Coffee Camp’ started at 3 a.m. but man I have never missed one; I don’t wanna miss one.”

March 26, 2022: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn go on a double date

Reba Instagram

In March 2022, the couple were joined by actor John Lithgow and his wife, Mary Yeager, on a dinner date. McEntire posted a photo from the date night on Instagram, which featured the foursome smiling in a restaurant.

“Continuing our amazing Oscar week! Started out with having dinner with new friends for me. Old friends for Rex. Thanks John and Mary for meeting us in the valley,” she wrote in the caption.

March 27, 2022: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn attend the Oscars

Mike Coppola/Getty

McEntire and Linn got dressed up to attend the 94th Academy Awards together. McEntire performed her song “Somehow You Do” from the film Four Good Days, for which she received her 13th nomination for Best Original Song.

McEntire shared a photo from the glamorous night along with a photo of her and Linn dressed in goofy outfits for a “Hillbilly Chili Cookoff.”

“Swipe right ➡️ to see what a difference a week makes. From red carpets to red peppers, we have fun either way!!! #Oscars @HillbillyChilliCookOff,” she captioned the post.

July 21, 2022: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn hang with former Reba costar

In July 2022, McEntire shared an Instagram video that sent Reba fans into a frenzy. The video showed McEntire’s former Reba costar Melissa Peterman, who played Barbara Jean on the sitcom for all six seasons, crashing her and Linn’s couples photoshoot and snapping shots of the pair.

“We were just trying to do a quick photo shoot and then she showed up,” McEntire wrote.

August 12, 2022: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn announce they will play spouses on Big Sky

In August 2022, Deadline reported that Linn would join McEntire on season 3 of Big Sky as her character’s husband.

“We’re having a blast,” McEntire told Deadline. “We’re still in the middle of shooting. We were on set last night and there was a full moon. I think we broke around 12:54 a.m. Mountain time. It was a long night but so beautiful. We are really loving it.”

Linn raved about his girlfriend’s performance, saying, “Wait until you see her in this!”

October 19, 2022: Reba McEntire talks about her romance with Rex Linn

While speaking to PEOPLE, McEntire once again opened up about her nearly 3-year relationship with Linn, calling him “the love of my life.”

Of playing husband and wife on-screen, she said, “To play husband and wife, it’s natural for us. Rex and I rehearse all the time to make sure that when we step on that set, we’re not wasting anybody’s time. We’re professionals. We have our stuff together, we show up on time, we’re ready. We’re not holding up anybody because time is money on the TV set.”

March 29, 2023: Reba McEntire says she and Rex Linn first bonded over tater tots

During an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, McEntire recounted a night out with the cast of Young Sheldon, which included Linn. The group wandered into a wine bar and the Reba star jumped at the opportunity to order tater tots.

“Rex said, ‘That’s your nickname from here on out — Tater Tot,’ ” she told host Jennifer Hudson, adding that she now calls Linn by the nickname “Sugar Tot.”

McEntire continued: “We’re the tots — sugar and tater. We’ve been together ever since. He’s a sweetheart.”

April 17, 2023: Reba McEntire says Rex Linn is a “great guy to be in love with”

While filling in for Hoda Kotb on Today with Hoda & Jenna, McEntire gushed about Linn, who was watching from the stage wings.

“I couldn’t get close enough to him,” she said, recalling the early days of their romance. “I’m telling you, he’s a great guy to be in love with.”

The couple also recalled their most recent Valentine’s Day date — a trip to Sonic for tater tots.

“It was the best Valentine’s dinner ever,” Linn told Jenna Bush Hager.

August 24, 2023: Reba McEntire and Rex Linn enjoy a vacation in Italy

Reba McEntire and her boyfriend, Rex Linn, in Italy.Reba McEntire Instagram

According to McEntire’s posts on Instagram, the couple had “too much fun” while on vacation in Italy. McEntire and Linn’s getaway itinerary included a visit to the National Railway Museum of Pietrarsa in Naples.

The Queen of Country, Reba McEntire, got her now-famous moniker from a particularly inspirational family member.

It’s one of the most recognizable names in show business, and for good reason: Reba McEntire just rolls off the tongue. In fact, most of the time, she just goes by Reba.

After the early foray into the music business, the “Fancy” singer has gone on to hit many high notes during her four-decade career with more than 75 million records sold worldwide and a staggering 25 No. 1 hits. She’s joined the ranks of pop culture icons like Oprah and Madonna, who only need to be known by their first name, as a result of her chart-topping music (and epic music videos) along with her long-standing run on the popular sitcom Reba and current role as a Coach on The Voice Season 24.

Many artists have stage names, so some may wonder if there’s more to the story with McEntire’s title. Below, learn more about McEntire’s mythic solo moniker.

What Is Reba McEntire’s Real Name?

Technically, Reba Nell McEntire is her full name.

The Season 24 Voice Coach was born in McAlester, Oklahoma, on March 28, 1955. McEntire was bestowed the now-famous name by her parents, Jackie and Clark McEntire, in honor of her maternal grandmother, Reba Smith.

“My grandma was a very spiritual woman. Her name was Reba Smith. That’s my mama’s mama,” McEntire told CountryLiving.com in 2016. “My daddy’s mama died before my oldest sister Alice was born.”

The first name wasn’t the only thing her grandmother passed down to the Grammy-winning singer while she was growing up on an 8,000-acre cattle ranch in Chockie, Oklahoma.

“Grandma Reba taught me about the love of Jesus,” McEntire shared. “To me, that’s the most important thing she could’ve ever taught me.”

Reba McEntire on “The Battles Part 6/ Knock Outs Premiere” Season 24 Episode 13 of The Voice. Photo: Trae Patton/NBC

Reba McEntire Is Loving Coaching Team Reba on The Voice Season 24

Reba McEntire appears in The Voice Season 24 Episode 9. Photo: Trae Patton/NBC

Although she secured her place as a household name, McEntire has become a fixture in living rooms across America on Season 24 of The Voice alongside Coaches Niall Horan, Gwen Stefani, and John Legend. McEntire had some big cowboy boots to fill after taking over Coach Blake Shelton’s chair, but Team Reba is killing it during McEntire’s debut as a Coach.

As Team Reba fans everywhere cross their fingers for a win, McEntire has been keeping her eyes on the prize. In an October 2023 interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers, McEntire revealed that Legend is major competition.

“John’s got a great knack for picking great singers,” McEntire gushed. “And when we’re with our backs to the singers that come on to audition, I’m always looking at John, to see if John’s going to hit that button!”

Reba McEntire and John Legend on “The Battles Part 6/ Knock Outs Premiere” Season 24 Episode 13 of The Voice. Photo: Trae Patton/NBC

With decades of expertise, McEntire has proven to be one of the most insightful Coaches the competition has seen. McEntire will return as a Coach for Season 25 of The Voice — so she is just getting started.

“I’m really having a wonderful time,” McEntire told Newsweek in September 2023. “[The Voice] is a well-oiled machine, so getting in at this time is marvelous. Everybody knows the game plan, from the crew, the producers. Everybody on the show is so nice, so sweet, and have been so helpful. I’m loving it.”

Reba McEntire’s 34-Year-Old Son, Shelby, Looks Like Her Twin with the Same Red Hair

The Voice Coach proudly shared a new picture of her lookalike son.

Reba McEntire has her own, full-grown mini-me!

On February 23, The Voice Coach shared a new snapshot of herself and her son Shelby, who just turned 34. In the picture, they are seated during golden hour as the sunlight shined on their near identical nose, eyes, and red hair.

”I sure feel a lot better today than I did 34 years ago! 🙂 From the first second I found out I was pregnant, up to today, this child is one of the biggest blessings of my life. Thank you, God for letting me experience being a mama. I love you, Shelby, with all my heart mind and soul. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️,” McEntire wrote in the caption.

Happy birthday, Shelby!

All about Reba McEntire’s son, Shelby Blackstock
Shelby Blackstock was born in 1990, a year after McEntire wed racecar driver Narvel Blackstock. As an adult, Shelby has taken after his father’s footsteps, racing at the US F2000 National Championship, the Pro Mazda Championship and the Indy Lights (via Closer Weekly).

Shelby got married in 2022 at Disney World, with his mom and her boyfriend, Rex Linn, present at the ceremony. “Tackling whatever life throws our way as husband and wife — creating a family and legacy, together — excites us more than anything,” Shelby told People shortly after the wedding.

McEntire is a super proud mama. In a 2022 interview with People, she revealed how she raised Shelby to be a well adjusted and grateful person.

“When we would play games or cards, I’d never let Shelby win. He wouldn’t have learned anything that way. I always told Shelby, ‘I’ll always love you, but I want other people to like you. So don’t be a little jerk. Don’t be a spoiled brat,’” she told the outlet. “A lot of people have told me you would never know [he] had been blessed with the life he was given.”

Reba McEntire and her son Shelby Blackstock attend the 2018 Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Gala at Music City Center on October 28, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images

“I’m very proud of him. He was a kid who had ADHD and could barely read in school, and now he’s read 10 books this year. He’s always trying to improve and do better. His daddy did a great job too,” she added.

She continued: “Shelby is a gift from God to me. We’re very close. I was a very self-centered person to a degree before Shelby. But then there’s a little character who you are given the job to protect and nurture and love and teach, so all the attention’s not on you anymore.”