Reba McEntire admits that 26-year marriage to ex Narvel Blackstock 'was always business'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Country music icon Reba McEntire delved into the intricacies of her marriage to Narvel Blackstock during a candid conversation on 'The Drew Barrymore Show' aired on Friday, March 1.

McEntire and Blackstock, a renowned producer and manager, were married from 1989 until their separation in 2015. Their professional lives intersected significantly, leading McEntire to describe their relationship as "always business."

Reba McEntire reflects on marriage to Narvel Blackstock

"Our marriage was 26 years. We started out working together in the band," she continued. "He was part of the band, and then became my manager, later on then my husband, but it was a situation that was always business — whether we were getting ready in the morning, pillow talk, whatever, but it was business."

Even during supposed moments of relaxation, McEntire acknowledged the pervasive influence of their work. "Even when we were on vacation to recharge the batteries, about three days into a vacation it was like, ‘You know what we can do?'" she shared.

Despite the intricacies of their professional partnership, McEntire confessed that the decision to part ways was not hers. "The divorce was not my idea. I didn't want it in any shape, form or fashion," she admitted, highlighting her initial resistance to the breakup.

In a separate interview, McEntire said she can "never forget" some of the things Blackstock did in their marriage, but "going on with life is what's really important."

McEntire and Blackstock, 67, married in 1989 and split in 2015.

Reba McEntire finds love again

Country music legend Reba McEntire has found love anew in the arms of actor Rex Linn. The couple, who commenced their romantic journey in early 2020, has been the subject of recent speculation following McEntire's appearance on 'The Voice.'

During the taping on Monday, December 4, keen-eyed observers noticed McEntire sporting a sizable ring on her left hand, igniting rumors of a potential marriage between the two lovebirds.

"He's the love of my life," McEntire told People in October 2022. "We're pretty much inseparable."

After reconnecting with Linn in early 2020, McEntire detailed their deep connection on her 'Living & Learning' podcast. “[We’ve been] having discussions about our past, our [families], funny stories, him being an actor, me being an actress,” she said. “He’s very into my music, I’m very into his career—it’s just great getting to talk to somebody who I find very interesting, very funny, and very smart, and is interested in me too.”