Christopher Rich, best known for his role as Brock Hart on Reba and to daytime fans as Alexander “Sandy” Cory on Another World, is making a triumphant return to television after a life-changing stroke in 2018. The beloved actor is guest-starring on NBC’s Happy’s Place, reuniting with longtime friends Reba McEntire and Melissa Peterman. Rich recently sat down for an interview with TV Line, opening up about his recovery, his return to the screen, and what this experience has meant to him.
A Familiar Face Returns to TV
After suffering a stroke six years ago, Rich wasn’t sure he’d ever act again. “I was worried I wouldn’t be able to do it again—that that magic thing in my brain had been destroyed with the stroke,” he admitted. However, stepping onto the set of Happy’s Place felt like coming home. “I really do feel like I’m ready to just hit it back again, and go do some more fun stuff. I love working.”
His character, Maverick, a tattoo artist who also experienced a stroke, allows Rich to bring his real-life experience into his performance. The show’s producers embraced this element, integrating it into the storyline in a way that finds humor and heart in the situation. “I was more than willing to play a character without referencing the stroke, but they said, ‘We think we can take advantage of it, maybe get a little comedy out of it.’ And I said, ‘Please, please use it.’”
A Warm Welcome Back
Returning to a studio audience, particularly alongside McEntire and Peterman, was an emotional experience. “It was incredible, buddy,” Rich recalled. “What a surge of emotion I went through. In fact, I wish you’d been there. You would have heard me thank the audience—thank them for sharing the experience with me.” The camaraderie between the Reba cast remains as strong as ever, fueling speculation about a possible on-screen reunion in the future.
What’s Next for Rich?
Could Maverick become a recurring character on Happy’s Place? Rich is certainly open to the idea, especially if it means continuing to work with his former co-stars. “There’s nothing more delightful than being on that set with my friends – best place in the world.” As for a full-fledged Reba reunion, he’s hopeful. “We could do a great Christmas movie, a great summer vacation movie… it’s a super talented cast.”
For now, fans can catch Rich on Happy’s Place, airing Fridays at 8/7c on NBC and streaming on Peacock.
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