Reba McEntire is back on network television, stepping behind the bar in a new sitcom series that expertly blends elements of drama and comedy into a delightful mix.
NBC’s upcoming sitcom Happy’s Place, debuting this Friday (18th October 2024), follows the journey of Reba McEntire’s character, Bobbie, who unexpectedly inherits a tavern in Tennessee from her late father. In a shocking twist during the premiere, she discovers that he had a second family.
The situation becomes even more concerning with the revelation that her father bequeathed the bar to both Bobbie and her recently found sister, Isabella. Compounding the tension is the stark divide between the two women, marked by differences in ethnicity and a significant generational gap.
The following conversation grab the attention.
Bobbie : I’m shocked. I mean, I didn’t think Daddy could ever do anything like this, because he always said family was the most important thing.
Isabella : Maybe that’s why he started two of them.
Belissa Escobedo, portraying Isabella, describes the new series as a blend of sweetness and bitterness, highlighting the journey of these two women as they strive to find harmony and progress in their lives.
As per Belissa, “Bobbie’s reaction to this news is distinctly different from Isabella’s, and the audience can clearly perceive and appreciate both perspectives. I find it wonderful how Isabella gradually finds her way into Bobbie’s heart”.
In the series, Bobbie finally turns to Isabella and comes to a profound realization : “I’ve viewed you as someone imposed on me, but I should see you as a sister who has been gifted to me.”
According to US Music legend Reba McIntyre, “The things that are most important in my life is love, hope, faith, happiness, energy, light. And that’s all of the things that are happening with this show.”
Belissa Escobedo, known for her roles in films such as Blue Beetle and Hocus Pocus 2, as well as her regular appearances in TV series like The Baker and the Beauty, expresses that collaborating with Reba McEntire is a delightful experience. As per her, “She is an angel. She is so sweet, so down to earth. She does everything with a smile and comes in ready to work, but also ready to have fun.”
The upcoming series Happy’s Place is brought to life by seasoned television expert Kevin Abbott, who boasts an impressive portfolio that includes producing iconic shows like Reba, Last Man Standing, Roseanne, and The Golden Girls.
The series captures a delightful Cheers atmosphere, reminiscent of another beloved NBC classic set in a bar. This setting naturally paves the way for fresh storylines featuring guest stars, while also providing space for quirky regulars to thrive.
Notably, fans can look forward to a reunion between Reba McEntire and Melissa Peterman, who previously dazzled audiences in Reba, alongside Rex Lin, a familiar face in their collaborative ventures.
Initially, there was a concept to cast Reba McEntire in the role of a school teacher, with Melissa Peterman taking on the role of the principal. However, the release of Abbott Elementary on ABC rendered that idea obsolete. The subsequent suggestion involved delving into the notion of a hidden family, drawing inspiration from the ancestry-tracing service 23andMe.
As per Reba McEntire, “Many individuals can identify with the experience of discovering a third cousin they never knew existed. This relatability is a key factor in the success of shows, as well as books, songs, and movies. When people can see themselves in a story, it resonates more deeply, leading to greater success.”
The cast features a diverse line up, including Reba McEntire, Belissa Escobedo, and Melissa Peterman, along with Pablo Castelblanco from Alaska Daily, Tokala Black Elk known for American Primeval and 1883, and Rex Linn from Young Sheldon and Better Call Saul.
This ensemble showcases a rich tapestry of cultures, with Pablo Castelblanco hailing from Colombia, Rex Linn representing Sioux heritage, and Belissa Escobedo bringing her Mexican background to the mix.
According to Reba McEntire, “The presence of such a diverse cast has proven to be fascinating both on and off the screen. During moments of downtime, whether we’re waiting for rewrites or engaged in rehearsals, we take the opportunity to connect, share stories, and learn from one another. This experience has truly been an enriching education for everyone involved.”
Reba McEntire is eager for Reba fans to give it a look. Throughout its six-season run, Reba achieved solid ratings on The WB and later on The CW.
However, it encountered stiff competition at award ceremonies from popular shows such as Everybody Loves Raymond, Friends, Will & Grace, Desperate Housewives, Malcolm in the Middle, Ugly Betty, and 30 Rock.
The tireless Reba McEntire, currently filming The Voice for NBC and managing her own clothing and footwear brands, has joined forces with legendary songwriter Carole King to create the theme song for the new show.
In a striking moment from the latest series, a framed drawing created by a child unexpectedly tumbles from the wall of the tavern, unveiling that it was crafted by Isabella. This revelation serves as undeniable evidence of their father’s affection for his hidden daughter.
Belissa Escobedo emphasizes that the central theme we delve into, infused with humor, is the concept of grief and its aftermath. “When one door closes, another opens,” she notes, highlighting a perspective that often goes overlooked. This exploration invites us to reflect on the transformative power of loss and the new opportunities that can arise from it.