Christopher Rich Returns to Acting After Life-Altering Stroke

LOS ANGELES, CA — Seven years after suffering a life-altering stroke, former “Reba” star Christopher Rich is stepping back into the spotlight, joining his co-stars Reba McEntire and Melissa Peterman on NBC’s new show “Happy's Place.” Rich, 71, expressed his gratitude for the support of his former castmates, who have played a pivotal role in his recovery journey.

“I’ve basically taken the last decade off and if anybody was going to drag me out of the dark corner of the closet, it would be the redhead,” Rich said, referring to McEntire in an interview with Fox News Digital. “It feels great to be back on set and playing a character that resonates with my own experience.”

Rich suffered a massive stroke in 2018, which significantly affected his health, leaving him unable to use the left side of his body. He described the recovery process as challenging but rewarding. “You know, I liken it to sort of climbing a marble facade of a building with your fingernails. You make tiny little bits of progress, but you don’t get up there very high,” he said.

Through physical therapy and support from his family and friends, including McEntire and Peterman, Rich has worked hard to regain his strength and confidence. McEntire and Peterman frequently visited him during his recovery, bringing gifts and spending time with him in the hospital.

Rich highlighted the importance of the close-knit support system he has maintained with his former castmates. “They were there from the beginning,” he said. “Melissa used to come over and bring me treats all the time in the hospital, and she was such a great supporter.”

His guest appearance on “Happy’s Place” marks a significant milestone in his journey back to acting. “It’s great to be able to be a disabled person and play a disabled person,” he said. Rich plays a local tattoo artist with a unique sense of humor about his stroke.

Reflecting on the love and camaraderie that permeated the set of “Reba,” Rich remarked, “I’m saying that it’s probably still the best set in town to work on.” He emphasized the welcoming environment created by his fellow actors and crew, many of whom were also part of the original series.

McEntire, who plays the lead in “Happy’s Place,” praised Rich’s courage in returning to acting. “It wasn’t easy for him to come back and do this with a group that has known him for 25 years,” she said. “But for him to have the courage to come do this and make everybody feel so comfortable – he did have a stroke and he’s back acting, and that gives such inspiration to other people. You can do that.”

Rich’s journey back to the camera is not just about personal triumph but also serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. He affirmed, “I was ready to quit acting, but now I’m back in the race. I’m going to get to the finish line. I may have to limp across it, but I’m getting there.”

“Happy’s Place” airs Fridays at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, promising viewers heartwarming moments and a glimpse into the resilient spirit of those who face adversity.