Reba McEntire shares a heartwarming tale of love and secrecy, as she discloses the details of Rex Linn’s Christmas Eve proposal and the touching reason they kept it under wraps for nine months. The country music sensation accidentally spilled the beans about her engagement to Linn, whom she started dating in 2020, at the Emmys in September. In an exclusive feature with PEOPLE magazine, McEntire opens up about the romantic and unexpected proposal that took place on December 24th at Leiper’s Fork in Tennessee.
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Initially planning to announce their engagement in January, the couple faced unforeseen circumstances that delayed their big reveal. McEntire explains, “We got engaged December the 24th, Christmas Eve at Leiper’s Fork. So we got engaged then, we were going to make the announcement when we got back to L.A. in January, and the fires happened. It wasn’t appropriate.” The timing finally felt right when the news slipped out during the Emmys red carpet. Describing the proposal as a “total surprise” with a touch of “Rex Linn timing,” McEntire shares that they are taking things slow in terms of wedding plans and are simply relishing in their engagement.
Having first crossed paths in 1991, McEntire and Linn’s romantic journey began in 2020, blossoming into a beautiful relationship. McEntire fondly recalls the early days of their love story, initiated when Linn reached out to her during a challenging period in 2020. Expressing deep admiration for her fiancé, McEntire reveals, “I’ve never been loved by a man like Rex Linn. Rex is a very tender-hearted man, and I just love him with all my heart. He’s a good guy.”
The couple, who are also co-stars on the NBC sitcom ‘Happy’s Place,’ enjoy a strong bond both on and off-screen. McEntire praises Linn’s affectionate nature, emphasizing his penchant for hugs and expressions of love. Their on-set camaraderie is marked by shared moments, such as morning routines at the bar where they indulge in breakfast rituals. Reflecting on their special connection, McEntire shares insights into the endearing qualities that make Linn stand out, describing him as bashful yet incredibly loving.
In a message of hope and resilience, McEntire offers advice for those navigating heartbreak, drawing from her own experiences of love and loss. Encouraging others to prioritize self-care and remain open to new beginnings, she highlights the importance of timing and faith. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season of ‘Happy’s Place’ and catch McEntire in her role as a coach on ‘The Voice,’ her personal journey with Linn continues to inspire with its authenticity and unwavering devotion.
To read more about Reba McEntire and Rex Linn’s enchanting love story, grab a copy of this week’s PEOPLE magazine, available on newsstands starting Friday. Stay tuned for updates on their evolving relationship and shared adventures as they navigate the joys of engagement and newfound love.