Shelby & Rissa Blackstock Pulled Off the Perfect Lie to Surprise Reba at 70 and She Never Saw It Coming
Reba McEntire Rings in 70 With Music, Family, and a Big Surprise
Country legend Reba McEntire celebrated a milestone birthday on March 28, 2025, turning 70 years old. The Oklahoma native has spent more than five decades shaping country music, selling over 75 million records, earning 25 No. 1 hits, 16 ACM Awards, and three Grammys, cementing her place in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
A Message of Gratitude
To mark the occasion, Reba shared a rare childhood photo and reflected on her birth story, offering heartfelt thanks to her fans, friends, and faith.
“I’m so grateful and thankful to God and my Angels for continuing to guide, direct, protect, and give me my marching orders 🙂 And for putting each of you in my life,” she wrote in a birthday message.
A Birthday On Stage
Even on her big day, the singer was working—performing to a packed crowd at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT. But unbeknownst to her, her loved ones were planning a major surprise.
Family’s Heartfelt Surprise
Her son Shelby Blackstock, his wife Marissa (“Rissa”), and longtime friend Shane Tarleton staged an elaborate ruse. Rissa even posted a fake Facebook update claiming the couple was in Chicago for a baby shower, while in reality they donned custom “Reba 70” jerseys and cheered her on just rows from the stage.
Reba performed her entire set without realizing her family was in the audience. The reveal came backstage, where she walked into a surprise celebration with cake, sparklers, and flowers. Overcome with emotion, Reba embraced her son, laughing through tears and calling him a “big liar” for keeping the secret.
Still Going Strong
At 70, McEntire shows no signs of slowing down—balancing her music, acting career (including an upcoming film based on a Fannie Flagg novel), and life with boyfriend Rex Linn. Her milestone birthday proved that even after decades in the spotlight, Reba’s greatest joy comes from the people who surround her.
