“Reba” Star Credits Country Singer for Helping Him ‘Re-Enter the World Again’
Published November 18, 2025 | By Jennifer Pernicano
Christopher Rich is opening up about how Reba McEntire helped change his life — not just professionally, but personally — after years spent largely out of the public eye.
Best known for playing Brock Hart on Reba, Rich recently reunited with his former castmates on McEntire’s new sitcom Happy’s Place, a return that marked far more than a guest appearance. For the actor, it represented a step back into the world after a long and difficult recovery.
Reba Reunions Continue on Happy’s Place
When Reba McEntire launched Happy’s Place with longtime collaborator Melissa Peterman, fans immediately hoped for familiar faces from Reba. Peterman, who famously played Barbra Jean, was part of the original sitcom for its entire run — and creator Kevin Abbott has leaned into the nostalgia ever since.
The first Reba alum to appear was Steve Howey, who played Van. His reunion with McEntire quickly went viral after a blooper surfaced in which he accidentally called her “Mrs. H,” just as his character did years ago.
Next came Christopher Rich.
Rich guest-starred during the show’s first season, delighting longtime fans. And Abbott has confirmed that even more reunions are on the way in Season Two. On October 1, 2025, it was announced that JoAnna Garcia Swisher — who played McEntire’s daughter Cheyenne — will also appear in an upcoming episode.
A Life Changed by Health Challenges
Behind the scenes, Rich’s return to television carried deep personal meaning.
In 2018, the actor suffered a stroke that permanently altered his life. His mobility became limited, and he now relies on a cane full-time, along with managing other lasting health issues.
As a result, Rich gradually withdrew from public life. Outside of the occasional birthday dinner or private gathering with former castmates, he rarely made appearances and largely stayed out of the spotlight.
That changed when Reba McEntire invited him to appear on Happy’s Place.
“I Sort of Re-Entered the World Again”
In a recent interview with People, Rich shared how much McEntire’s invitation meant to him.
“It used to be so embarrassing to come out,” he admitted. “But now, ever since Reba dragged me back to do Happy’s Place, I’ve sort of re-entered the world again. I’m having the time in my life.”
Rich also credited both McEntire and Peterman for supporting him during the earliest days of his recovery.
“They were there from the beginning,” he said. “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. She was such a great supporter.”
A Long, Difficult Climb
Reflecting on the seven years since his stroke, Rich described the recovery process with striking honesty.
“It’s been a long journey,” he said. “I liken it to 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.”
Still, returning to the set — surrounded by familiar faces and genuine care — helped him reclaim a sense of normalcy and confidence he feared he’d lost.
Seeing Christopher Rich step back into the public eye is a powerful reminder of the impact kindness and loyalty can have off-camera. Fans are thrilled to see him again — and wish him continued strength and healing on the road ahead.