Reba McEntire‘s divorce from Narvel Blackstock shocked many, but no one was more upset than their son, Shelby. The country music legend recently revealed the real reason behind her decision, leaving Shelby furious. While their marriage spanned over two decades, it was far from the romantic fairytale many believed it to be. What truly led to their split? And how has Shelby coped with the revelation? Read on to discover the full story behind this unexpected family drama and Reba’s journey to happiness.
Reba McEntire and Narvel Blackstock: A Marriage Built on Business
Reba McEntire has had a stellar career in country music, earning multiple awards and accolades over the years. However, her personal life has been just as eventful, particularly her marriage to Narvel Blackstock. The couple tied the knot in 1989 and remained together until their divorce in 2015.
- The wedding photos of Shelby, Reba McEntire’s son, left everyone “stunned” by their extravagance: “This is truly the caliber of the son of the queen of music.”
- Steve Howey, a guest star on Happy’s Place, revealed that he had to wait “too long” to get a “yes” from Reba McEntire—she’s “too stuck-up.”
- Martha Stewart unexpectedly claimed that Reba McEntire had “come between” her and Snoop Dogg’s friendship.
What made their relationship unique was its foundation. During an interview on The Drew Barrymore Show, Reba revealed that her marriage to Narvel was more of a business arrangement than a romantic partnership. “Our marriage was 26 years. We started out working together in the band. He was part of the band, then became my manager, and later on, my husband. But it was always business — whether we were getting ready in the morning, pillow talk, whatever, but it was business,” she explained.
This revelation sheds light on why their marriage eventually ended. While they had built a successful professional empire together, the emotional connection that many expect in a marriage seemed to be missing. Even vacations were not truly relaxing, as business matters were always on their minds.
Shelby’s Reaction to His Parents’ Divorce
While Reba and Narvel’s split appeared amicable on the surface, their son Shelby did not take it lightly. Having grown up witnessing his parents’ dynamic, he had always believed their marriage was built on love and mutual respect. When he discovered the real reason behind their divorce, he was reportedly furious with his mother.
- Reba McEntire revealed that she and Rex Linn will not spend Christmas together this year due to a previous “unpleasant Christmas season” caused by him NOT FOLLOWING her family’s rules.
- Reba McEntire wiped away tears as she shared that now is the time for her to truly enjoy “happiness” after the “dark” phase of her life. What happened?
- EXCLUSIVE: Marissa, Reba McEntire’s daughter-in-law, couldn’t stop crying as she confessed that she has always felt “TERRIFIED” by the family for an unspeakable reason.
Sources close to the family revealed that Shelby struggled to understand why his mother would stay in a relationship that lacked genuine emotional depth. To him, Reba and Narvel had always been a unit, and learning that their bond was more professional than personal was a tough pill to swallow.
Shelby, a professional race car driver, has always been close to both of his parents. However, insiders claim that his relationship with Reba went through a rough patch following the divorce. He felt blindsided by the news and questioned why she had not shared her feelings about the marriage sooner.
Despite his initial anger, Shelby has since come to terms with his parents’ separation. He continues to maintain a relationship with both Reba and Narvel, though it took time for him to fully understand the complexities of their marriage and divorce.
Life After Divorce: Reba’s Journey to True Happiness
Following her split from Narvel Blackstock, Reba McEntire took time to focus on herself and rediscover what truly made her happy. Despite the end of their marriage, she has remained on good terms with Narvel’s children from his previous marriage, including Brandon Blackstock, who was previously married to Kelly Clarkson.
In 2020, Reba found love again with actor Rex Linn. Unlike her previous marriage, her relationship with Rex is filled with romance and spontaneity. In an interview with People, she described their bond as deeply affectionate and joyful. “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 shared.
For Reba, this new chapter in her life has been a refreshing change. No longer bound by a business-driven marriage, she now experiences a partnership that is rooted in love, laughter, and mutual appreciation.
Reba McEntire’s revelation about her marriage to Narvel Blackstock shocked many, especially their son, Shelby. While their relationship lasted for 26 years, it was largely built on business rather than love. Understandably, Shelby was initially furious upon learning the truth, but over time, he has accepted his parents’ decision.
Reba has since moved on and found happiness with Rex Linn, proving that it’s never too late to seek true love. As fans continue to support her career and personal journey, one thing remains clear—Reba McEntire is a woman who embraces change and follows her heart.
Do you think Reba made the right choice in prioritizing her happiness? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
