Reba McEntire’s Sitcom Return in NBC’s ‘Happy’s Place’ Is Hilarious and Nostalgic: TV Review

variety.com:

Aramide Tinubu More than 20 years after the debut of her hit series “Reba,” Reba McEntire has reunited with executive producers Kevin Abbott, Michael Hanel and Mindy Schultheis as well as co-star Melissa Peterman for a new multi-cam NBC sitcom “Happy’s Place.” Though this new show is unrelated to the beloved WB series, which aired for six seasons, it has the heart, fun and familiarity that made the early 2000s series such a delight.

Though critics only received two episodes in advance, thus far, “Happy’s Place” is nostalgic, funny and heartfelt. In addition to an eclectic cast of characters and McEntire’s signature edge woven throughout the comedy, the Tennessee-set sitcom feels like a universal crowdpleaser about family, friendship and generational divisions while paying homage to past TV shows’ rhythmic beats and tone. “Happy’s Place” opens at its namesake, a tavern known as a neighborhood staple for regulars.

Following her father’s death, Bobbie (McEntire) is reopening the doors, eager to step into her new position as owner. A divorcee whose daughter is deployed in the military, the pub is Bobbie’s entire world.

In addition to the spitfire redhead, Happy’s Place employees fill out the show. Gabby (Peterman), a cheerful, clingy bartender desperate to form a deeper bond with her boss. (It’s a character similar to Peterman’s role as Barbra Jean in “Reba,” but it still works well here.) Emmett (Rex Linn) is Happy’s chef and the stoic pseudo-patriarch of the tavern.