Reba McEntire has had a long and illustrious career in country music since releasing her self-titled debut studio album in 1977. Inarguably one of the most decorated females of the genre, she has sold an estimated 90 million records worldwide throughout her career, produced over 20 No. 1 songs, and racked up dozens of awards, including seven CMA Awards, 16 Academy of Country Music Awards and three Grammys.
But aside from being a genre-defining artist, the legend – widely recognized as the “Queen of Country” – has built a solid resume outside of country music. McEntire has performed on Broadway having made her debut as Annie Oakley in the revival of Irving Berlin’s Annie Get Your Gun. She has also starred in numerous films like 1990’s Tremors, alongside Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward, and the 1993 movie, The Man from Left Field, written and directed by Burt Reynolds.
McEntire has also played the lead character in her TV sitcom titled, Reba, which ran from 2001-2007. Her current role is Sunny Barnes in the popular TV drama, Big Sky, which also features her co-star and real-life boyfriend, Rex Linn.
With such an impressive resume, it only makes sense for McEntire’s success and achievements to be honored. And that’s exactly what is happening with a planned upcoming ABC special. The 1-hour episode, which is all part of ABC’s “Superstar” documentary series, features a host of celebrities, participating in interviews to give fans deeper insight into the life and career of the Oklahoma-born rancher turned country music icon.
Guest appearances include Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, and Vince Gill. Luke Combs, Kristin Chenoweth, Wynonna Judd, Luke Bryan, Darius Rucker, and Dierks Bentley will also star in the special.
“She is the ‘Queen of Country.’ Known for her red hair and sassy style, Reba McEntire is one of the most successful female recording artists in country music history. From her humble beginnings on an Oklahoma cattle ranch to her rise as one of country music’s most influential stars, this one-hour special explores the experiences, triumphs, and losses that made Reba McEntire a household name,” a synopsis reads.
“Reba broke barriers and built an entertainment empire by expanding her career to movies, the Broadway stage, and television. Rare childhood photos and intimate behind-the-scenes videos reveal her story of grit and determination in a male-dominated industry,” the description continues. “The program also sheds light on her current relationship with Big Sky co-star Rex Linn and new details of how she dealt with the tragic plane crash that ended the lives of her tour manager and seven members of her band.”
The news surrounding the upcoming special comes as McEntire looks forward to the extended run of her Reba: Live In Concert tour, featuring special guests Terri Clark and The Isaacs.
The 14-date trek will kick off on March 9, in Jacksonville, FL. Looking ahead, the “Fancy” hitmaker is also preparing for the debut of her film Reba McEntire’s The Hammer, which reunites her with her Reba co-star Melissa Peterman and also features boyfriend Linn. Reba McEntire’s The Hammer, premieres on Saturday (Jan. 7) at 8:00 p.m. ET on Lifetime.
Superstar: Reba McEntire will air on Thursday (Dec. 8) at 9:00 p.m. ET on ABC. Those who miss out on the star-studded TV event can stream the show the following day on Hulu.
