“Reba” Star Credits The Country Singer For Helping Him “Re-Enter The World Again”
Christopher Rich admits Reba helped him begin making public appearances again (Photo Credit: NBC / Instagram)
Reba McEntire Has Brought Her Reba Show Castmates To Happy’s Place
When Reba McEntire landed the sitcom Happy’s Place with Melissa Peterman as her co-star, fans immediately began wondering if we would be getting more Reba show reunions. Of course, Peterman played Barbra Jean on Reba for the entirety of the series.
Luckily for fans, the Happy’s Place creator Kevin Abbott knew exactly what fans wanted because he has been sprinkling in Reba reunions since the beginning of the show! The first Reba co-star to be a guest on Happy’s Place was Steve Howey, who played Van on Reba.
His first interaction on set created the viral blooper, where he called McEntire “Mrs. H” as he did in the hit TV show.
The next cast member they brought in was Christopher Rich, who played Brock Hart.
During Season Two, Abbott says to expect more Reba reunions, and fans are beyond thrilled! It was confirmed on October 1, 2025 that JoAnna Garcia Swisher, who played McEntire’s daughter on Reba, will be guest starring in an episode of Happy’s Place!
Christopher Rich Credits The Singer For Helping Him Out Of Hiding
In 2018, Christopher Rich suffered a stroke that changed his life forever. His mobility became limited and he needed to use a cane full time, among other lasting health issues.
Due to his health problems, Rich became somewhat of a recluse, making little to no public appearances except for the occasional cast dinner with his former costars for his birthday or to celebrate someone else.
But, once Reba asked him to come on Happy’s Place, everything changed.
“It used to be so embarrassing to come out, but now, ever since Reba dragged me back to do Happy’s Place, I’ve sort of re-entered the world again,” Rich told People. “I’m having the time in my life.”
Rich also adds that Peterman and McEntire were there for him when he was going through his recovery from his stroke many years ago.
“They were there from the beginning. I mean, they came to my hospital bed; they sent me gifts. Melissa used to come over and bring me treats all the time in the hospital. And she was such a great supporter,” he said.
“It’s been a long journey,” Rich said of the seven years since his stroke. “You know, I liken it to sort of climbing a marble facade of a building with your fingernails. You make tiny little bits of progress, but you don’t get up there very high.”
We’re happy to see that Rich is making public appearances again! We wish the best on his continued recovery.
