Reba McEntire and Rex Linn Have Different Opinions on Whether Their “Happy’s Place” Characters Should Reunite (Exclusive)

In a recent interview, Reba McEntire and Rex Linn shared their contrasting views on their characters’ relationship in the popular NBC sitcom, Happy’s Place. The show, currently airing its third season, follows Bobbie and Emmett as they navigate the complexities of life and romance following a breakup. The couple, who are also partners in real life, offered insights into their differing opinions on whether their characters should reunite quickly or maintain a will-they-won’t-they dynamic.

Season three commenced with the episode “Office/Space,” which finds Bobbie, portrayed by McEntire, dating again while Emmett, played by Linn, adjusts to single life. This shift in their relationship is particularly poignant, as the previous season concluded with Emmett confessing that he felt heartbroken after their split. From friends to near strangers, their interactions have significantly changed. Yet, by the end of the latest episode, they seem to be steadily addressing challenging topics, albeit still far from rekindling their romance.

McEntire expressed her enthusiasm for the ongoing tension in their relationship. At 71, she appreciates the thrill of uncertainty that the will-they-won’t-they scenario adds to the storyline. Reflecting on iconic sitcoms such as Cheers, she stated, “I love that. It just keeps everybody on their toes and keeps that romance going.” Her fondness for this type of narrative suggests that she sees value in prolonging the suspense surrounding Bobbie and Emmett’s relationship.

Conversely, Linn, 69, is keen to see their characters reunite sooner rather than later. He finds the dynamic between Bobbie and Emmett more enjoyable when they are together on screen. “I’ve had more fun being with Bobbie as Emmett than I have without Bobbie,” he remarked. Linn’s enthusiasm for their characters as a couple is evident, and he admits he had not anticipated their pairing earlier in the show’s evolution. However, he revels in the chemistry they share on screen and longs to see it revived.

The introduction of new love interests complicates matters further. In the third season, Bobbie’s dating life includes a new character played by James Denton, a veteran from McEntire’s previous projects. Linn confessed to feeling jealous watching Bobbie with other suitors, which adds another layer of emotional complexity to the situation. “I’d rather [my character] be with Bobbie than without her,” he candidly said.

McEntire also responded cheerfully to Linn’s desire for their characters to reunite. “Yeah, of course,” she laughed, acknowledging the irony and fun that comes with their real-life relationship enhancing the storyline. Melissa Peterman, who plays Gabby, noted how the reality of McEntire and Linn’s relationship adds an entertaining dimension for viewers to their characters’ predicaments.

The third season of Happy’s Place not only explores the evolving love story between Bobbie and Emmett but also introduces fresh challenges and romantic entanglements for the entire ensemble cast, which includes Tokala Black Elk, Belissa Escobedo, and Pablo Castelblanco. Peterman teased her own character’s upcoming “mama drama,” linked to the return of Jane Lynch as Gabby’s mother. Meanwhile, Bobbie is set to dive deeper into the dating world, leaving Emmett to navigate his new single status.

As Linn described it, Emmett is “trying to find a new path” in the aftermath of his breakup with Bobbie. He is depicted wrestling with the reality of being a loner while also striving to build a fulfilling life independently from Bobbie. The potential for comedic situations arising from his misadventures adds a lighthearted touch to the show.

Happy’s Place airs new episodes every Friday at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, with the option to stream episodes the following day on Peacock. As the season progresses, viewers are left to wonder if Bobbie and Emmett will eventually reconnect or if their relationship will remain in this intriguing limbo. Regardless, both McEntire and Linn emphasize the fun and unpredictability that this storyline brings to the broader narrative of the series.