Happy’s Place is making a casting change ahead of a major character’s debut. Emma Kenney has officially joined the NBC sitcom as Gracie McAllister, the daughter of Bobbie, played by Reba McEntire. Kenney steps into the role following the departure of Elizabeth Alderfer, who was originally cast as the character.
The series, which also stars Belissa Escobedo, Melissa Peterman, Pablo Castelblanco, Tokala Black Elk, and Rex Linn, follows Bobbie as she inherits her late father’s bar and discovers she now shares ownership with a half-sister she never knew existed.
Gracie is set to make her first appearance in the January 10 episode. Described as strong-willed like her mother, the character is currently serving in the military and has been deployed overseas. She returns to Knoxville while on leave, setting up what could be an emotional and high-energy reunion at the tavern.
The sitcom continues to air Friday nights on NBC and returns from its holiday hiatus on January 3.
With a new face joining the cast and family dynamics expanding, fans can expect fresh storylines and plenty of heartfelt moments.