Latasha M. Ford of Awards Buzz recently sat down for a lively conversation with actor Rex Linn to discuss his extensive career and his role in the television hit series “Happy’s Place.” As the show enters its third season, Linn expressed excitement that the series has truly found its footing, emphasizing that its “heartwarming” nature and focus on kindness are exactly what audiences need today. Beyond his current work, Linn reflected on the technical challenges of portraying a retired golf coach with Alzheimer’s in “Big Door Prize” and shared the acting philosophy he follows, which involves bringing roughly 85% of his own personality to every role. He also touched upon the lessons learned from the abrupt end of “CSI: Miami” after a successful ten-season run and the specific advice on comedic timing he received from John Lithgow earlier in his career.
On a more personal note, Linn opened up about the joy of collaborating with his fiancée, Reba McEntire, describing their professional partnership as a career highlight fueled by their strong personal bond. He shared his current favorite tracks by McEntire, specifically noting a shift from “Consider Me Gone” to her newer release, “One Night in Tulsa”. A dedicated mentor and cinephile, he even recounted purchasing theater seats for younger castmates to ensure they experienced the classic film “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”. Throughout the interview, Linn’s passion for the craft was evident, whether discussing the “paradoxical lucidity” required for a dramatic performance or the fast-paced dialogue changes inherent in modern sitcoms.
Check out the full interview below:
About “Happy’s Place“
“Happy’s Place” premiered on NBC in October 2024, with its second season debuting in November 2025. The hilarious comedic series follows a woman who inherits her father’s Tennessee bar and discovers that her business partner is her long-lost, younger half-sister.
Reba McEntire and Belissa Escobedo star as the sisters alongside Rex Linn, Tokala Black Elk, Melissa Peterman, and Pablo Castelblanco. The show was created by Julie Abbott and Kevin Abbott. Kevin Abbott also executive produces alongside McEntire, Michael Hanel, Mindy Schultheis, Matt Berry and Pamela Fryman.
If you think your day is off to a good start, buckle-up for your week to be even better! In an exclusive interview with Awards Buzz’s Latasha M. Ford, Kevin Abbott and Pamela Fryman shared exciting casting news. Golden Globes, Emmy, SAG award-winning actors Jane Lynch and Eric Stonestreet have officially signed on to guest star in upcoming episodes when the show’s second season resumes on January 16, 2026. This marks a notable addition to the series, bringing together talent from “Glee” and “Modern Family” for the new season. Eric Stonestreet will portray Dr. Russell Peabody III, an unconventional therapist who attempts to help Bobbie also known as Reba McEntire and Isabella played by Belissa Escobedo resolve their conflicts. And Jane Lynch will play Valerie, the mother of Melissa Peterman’s character, Gabby, who visits her daughter for the first time and reveals an unexpected secret. Episodes airing Fridays at 8/7c on NBC and the next day on Peacock. You can view the official trailer for Season 2 below.
Official Trailer:
