Shortly after, a representative for Reba McEntire confirmed the engagement, putting to rest months of speculation and excitement among their supporters.. A Love Story Spanning Decades. Reba and Rex’s story began over 30 years ago on the set of the 1991 film The Gambler. From the start, they connected over their shared Oklahoma roots, their mutual love for acting, and their passion for horses. Reba has fondly remembered how Rex’s sense of humor drew her in, saying, “He made me laugh, and we quickly became good friends.” Despite their instant bond, romance did not develop at the time, and the two went their separate ways while maintaining their friendship