Reba McEntire’s closest friends made sure her 40th anniversary at the Grand Ole Opry was a night she’ll always remember.
On Friday, January 16, Reba returned to the Opry stage for a special celebration marking four decades as an official member. While her induction took place on January 14, 1986, her relationship with the Opry began much earlier—back in September 1977, when she first performed there at just 22 years old.
In a now-expired Instagram Story, Reba reflected on how deeply the Opry has shaped her life. She shared that her love for the institution was passed down through her family, recalling how her parents raised their children listening to the Grand Ole Opry on the radio every Saturday night. They were even in attendance the first time she ever stepped onto the Opry stage, a moment she said remains especially meaningful to this day.
Reba explained that the date of her first performance also coincided with a major family milestone—her father winning an all-around cowboy title at a rodeo in Pendleton, Oregon—making the memory even more special. Looking back, she said she still feels her parents’ presence with her whenever she stands on that stage and expressed just how much the Opry continues to mean to her.
To honor the occasion, Reba performed several fan-favorite hits throughout the evening, including “I’m a Survivor” and “Back to God,” reminding the audience why she remains one of country music’s most enduring icons.
Several of her longtime friends and fellow artists also joined the celebration. Trisha Yearwood, herself a longtime Opry member, performed a special rendition of Reba’s “How Blue” alongside Opry band member Mica Roberts.
Later in the night, Trisha surprised Reba with a deeply personal gesture—a handwritten letter that was read aloud as Reba stood nearby listening. In it, Trisha praised Reba not only as an artist, but as a rare kind of friend: someone who truly follows through, makes time for others, and shows up when it matters most. She spoke about watching Reba welcome new artists into the industry, offering real friendship rather than empty promises, and credited her with being both larger-than-life and genuinely down-to-earth. Trisha closed the message by telling Reba how lucky country music—and she herself—was to have her.
Terri Clark Delivers a One-of-a-Kind Anniversary Gift
Another close friend who made the night extra special was Terri Clark. The two have shared a long friendship over the years, with Terri even joining Reba’s family annually for their famous chili cook-off.
So when it came time to present Reba with her 40th anniversary gift, Terri arrived with something perfectly tailored to her friend’s personality. In a video shared by the Opry, Terri can be seen handing Reba a congratulatory bouquet—except this one was made entirely of corn dogs and sauce packets.
Reba’s reaction said it all. Her face immediately lit up as she laughed and admitted that her friends clearly know her very well. Terri jokingly presented the unusual bouquet on behalf of the Opry, prompting Reba to tease back that Terri probably wanted a share of it—which Terri happily agreed with.
@opryofficial If you know, you know🤭 Happy 40th Opry anniversary, @Reba McEntire! @Terri Clark ♬ original sound – Grand Ole Opry
Terri later commented on the video, summing it up perfectly: “Anything for the queen.”
The moment was the perfect mix of humor, friendship, and heartfelt appreciation—fitting for an artist whose legacy is built not just on music, but on genuine connection.