Reba McEntire and Rex Linn are one of country music’s most beloved couples. Their relationship, which officially began in 2020, is a heartwarming story of friendship turning into true love later in life. With their playful nicknames, shared passions, and on-screen chemistry, Reba and Rex prove that love can be fun, deep, and absolutely real.

In this article, we’ll explore how they met, when they started dating, and what they’ve said about the possibility of getting married one day.

How Did Reba McEntire and Rex Linn Meet?

Reba and Rex first met in 1991 while filming the TV movie The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw. Reba played Burgundy Jones, while Rex portrayed a character named Henry. Although nothing romantic developed at the time, they formed a friendship and stayed in touch over the years through mutual friends.

This long-standing connection set the foundation for something much deeper to blossom nearly 30 years later.

When Did Reba and Rex Start Dating?

Reba and Rex reconnected in January 2020 when Reba flew to California to film an episode of Young Sheldon, where Rex also has a role. The two went out for dinner with friends, and Rex posted a sweet photo from that night, captioned:

“Had a fantastic dinner with this Oklahoma girl. Tater Tots and Ketchup included.”

Shortly after that dinner, the world shut down due to COVID-19. The couple spent several months apart, but Rex supported Reba during a difficult time—her mother, Jacqueline, passed away in March 2020. While separated, Rex sent Reba care packages filled with her favorite treats like McConnell’s ice cream and Perini’s steaks.

By summer 2020, they reunited in person—and they’ve been inseparable ever since.

The Story Behind Their Cute Nicknames: “Tater Tot” & “Sugar Tot”

Fans of the couple may have noticed that Reba and Rex use the nicknames “Tater Tot” and “Sugar Tot” for each other. The story behind these names is as adorable as the couple themselves.

At their first dinner in 2020, Reba got excited when the server mentioned tater tots on the menu.

“I just went nuts because I love tater tots,” Reba said.

Rex, known for giving people nicknames, declared right then: “That’s yours.” Since then, Reba is his “Tater Tot.” In return, she calls him “Sugar Tot,” and together they refer to themselves as “The Tots.”

What Projects Have Reba and Rex Starred In Together?

Their chemistry isn’t limited to real life—they’ve also worked together on screen. Besides The Gambler Returns and Young Sheldon, Reba and Rex have shared the screen in:

• Big Sky (ABC) – as married couple Sunny and Buck Barnes (Season 3)

• The Hammer (2023, Lifetime) – a legal drama where they co-starred

• Happy’s Place (NBC) – a new sitcom they currently appear in together

They’ve expressed interest in doing even more, especially a Western.

“We were raised around cattle and horses,” Reba said. “He loves to team rope, I love to barrel race. It’s our dream to be in a Western together.”

Will Reba McEntire and Rex Linn Get Married?

This is the question fans keep asking: Will they tie the knot?

Reba has been married twice—first to Charlie Battles (1976–1987), then to Narvel Blackstock (1989–2015), with whom she shares a son, Shelby. Rex, on the other hand, has never been married.

That’s why Reba says the decision is entirely up to him.

“I said [to him], ‘If you want to, that’s fine with me.’ I’ve been married twice, he’s never been married. So if he wants to, that’s up to him.”

They’ve giggled about the idea and even joked about needing multiple wedding ceremonies to fit in all their friends and family.

“We’d have to do a 2 o’clock, 4 o’clock, 6 o’clock and 8 o’clock wedding!” Reba laughed.

Whether or not they get married, one thing is crystal clear: Reba and Rex are deeply in love. Reba has even called Rex “the love of my life.”

Conclusion

Reba McEntire and Rex Linn’s love story is a beautiful reminder that love can arrive when you least expect it—and that the best relationships often begin with friendship. Their bond is based on laughter, mutual respect, shared experiences, and deep emotional connection.

Whether they eventually say “I do” or simply continue enjoying life together as they are, Reba and Rex have created a love story that continues to inspire fans around the world.