Reba McEntire became visibly emotional while returning to the set of Happy’s Place, marking the cast and crew’s first day back at work following the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles.
The country music icon broke down in tears as production resumed on the NBC sitcom, which had briefly considered postponing filming due to the widespread destruction caused by the infernos. In the end, the team decided to move forward, hoping the show could offer a brief escape during an incredibly difficult time.
An eyewitness at the Universal Studios lot said the atmosphere was heavy yet united, with both cast and crew expressing deep gratitude for the support they had received after such a traumatic week. Before filming began, McEntire, 69, addressed everyone in attendance, taking a moment to personally thank audience members, castmates, and crew.
“Thank you all for being here,” she said, visibly emotional. “You have no idea how much that means to us, especially after this past week.” Fighting back tears, she acknowledged the heartbreak many had experienced, offering sympathy to those directly impacted by the fires. “This has been a horrific week, and my heart goes out to anyone affected by what’s happened here in L.A.”
McEntire explained that while postponing production was discussed, the team ultimately chose to continue. “We wanted to put on a show and bring a little joy during a really dark time,” she said. “We’re all hurting, but we’ll get through this together.”
A source close to the production confirmed that several members of the Happy’s Place team were personally affected by the fires, with at least one staffer losing their home. “Everyone is rallying around each other,” the insider shared. “It’s heartbreaking, but there’s a lot of love and support.”
Happy’s Place stars McEntire alongside longtime friend Melissa Peterman, her partner Rex Linn, and cast members Belissa Escobedo, Pablo Castelblanco, and Tokala Black Elk. The show premiered in October 2024 to strong ratings, though NBC has yet to announce a second-season renewal.
Following the wildfires, McEntire also shared messages of support on social media, thanking firefighters and first responders for their bravery and expressing solidarity with those affected — a sentiment echoed by her co-stars as the city continues to recover.
