Reba McEntire and Rex Linn: A Cowboy Kind of Love Story

Reba McEntire, the reigning queen of country music, is set to host the Academy of Country Music Awards, and she’s radiating happiness, thanks in no small part to her relationship with actor Rex Linn. Their connection, built on shared passions and a deep friendship, has blossomed into a romance that both are cherishing.

McEntire, glowing as she walked the red carpet, shared insights into what makes their relationship thrive. "Well, Rex and I get along in every aspect," she explained. The foundations of their bond are simple: shared interests and mutual respect. "He’s a better cook than I am, so I like that, for sure," she quipped, highlighting the playful dynamic between them.

Beyond the kitchen, their love for the cowboy way of life forms a strong connection. "We love Longhorns, we love the cowboy way of life, cowgirl way of life, and we both got into the entertainment industry. He’s an actor. I’m a singer. I love to act. Now we act together," she shared, emphasizing the overlapping aspects of their lives.

Their collaboration extends beyond their personal life, enriching their professional endeavors. "So it’s just the perfect union, absolutely. And we get along great. We do argue now. We argue a lot, but we have fun doing that too," McEntire said, painting a picture of a realistic and loving partnership, filled with laughter and understanding.

The question on everyone’s mind is whether wedding bells are in their future. McEntire playfully addressed the topic, saying, "You never know. Absolutely, hope so one day." Her response leaves the door open to the possibility of a deeper commitment, signaling a hopeful outlook on their future together.

While their romance blossomed in 2020, their connection goes back much further. McEntire and Linn have been friends since 1991, laying the groundwork for a strong foundation of trust and understanding. Their friendship transformed into something more when McEntire guest-starred on Linn’s show, "Young Sheldon."

The COVID-19 pandemic, rather than hindering their budding romance, unexpectedly strengthened their bond. "We didn’t get to see each other from January [2020] till June 16, but we created an intimacy by texting and talking over the telephone that we wouldn’t have gotten if we’d have been together all of that time," McEntire revealed.

Their virtual courtship allowed them to delve into deeper conversations and discover each other’s personalities on a more profound level. "It was very special. It was a great way to find out about each other without ever touching. We’ve been pretty much inseparable ever since June 16 of 2020," she explained, emphasizing the enduring strength of their connection.

The award-winning artist believes that their meeting wasn’t mere coincidence. Everything, according to McEntire, happens for a reason. Their relationship has opened doors to new opportunities. This includes acting roles, such as her show "Happy’s Place" alongside Linn.

"I didn’t expect it," McEntire admitted. "But everything just gelled, the success of us getting to work together, my touring and everything else fell into place. Timing is everything and everything happens for a reason." This shows their relationship has brought a holistic harmony into their lives.

McEntire also touched upon the personal growth she’s experienced since finding love with Linn. "Once you’re confident in your love life, your at-home life, then you can go out and conquer the world," she asserted. Their relationship has provided her with a newfound sense of strength and security, empowering her to excel in her career and pursue new ventures.

McEntire’s illustrious career spans 32 studio albums, 26 compilation albums, and two live albums. Her accolades include 16 ACM Awards, 14 American Music Awards, and three Grammy Awards. She earned the well-deserved title of "Queen of Country."

She recognizes the role that fate and timing have played throughout her career. McEntire believes in the idea of "everything happens for a reason". "When I started in the music business, I didn’t make big leaps and bounds," she explained. "I didn’t have one thing that catapulted me into success. My growth was little bitty steps every year, but steady."

Her gradual rise to fame allowed her to learn and grow organically. "I knew nothing about the music business, so when good things happened, I was very thankful. It also gave me time to build a team of friends and people in the business who could teach me, and I had fun learning," she recalled.

McEntire is hosting the ACM Awards. Blake Shelton, Carly Pearce, Clint Black, Gretchen Wilson, Lee Ann Womack, Lionel Richie, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, and Wynonna Judd will be joining her as presenters for the evening.

The 2025 ACM Awards will be broadcast on Amazon Prime from Frisco, Texas. Fans across the country are eagerly anticipating the star-studded event, especially McEntire’s performance as host.

Her red carpet appearance and her genuine happiness serve as a testament to the power of love and companionship. This shows that a cowboy-inspired romance can lead to a fulfilling personal and professional life.