Reba McEntire's Happy's Place has become a revolving door of familiar faces, and Season 3 is no exception. The NBC sitcom has already welcomed a slew of guest stars, from JoAnna Garcia Swisher to Christopher Lloyd, and now it's adding a Desperate Housewives alum to the mix. James Denton, who played Mike Delfino on the iconic drama, is stepping into the role of JB, a ruggedly handsome newcomer with his sights set on Bobbie (McEntire).
In the upcoming episode, titled "Love Birds," JB asks Bobbie out on a date, leaving her flustered and unsure how to handle the situation. It's a new experience for her, especially since she and Emmett (Rex Linn) have decided to take a break romantically. But Bobbie's half-sister Isabella (Belissa Escobedo) and best friend Gabby (Melissa Peterman) aren't so quick to trust JB's intentions.
Collider has an exclusive sneak peek that shows the two bartenders giving JB a comedic grilling. As soon as he walks in, they pounce, offering him a seat and a special drink while peppering him with questions. Isabella gets straight to the point, demanding to know if he's just looking for a fling or a "side piece." Gabby, meanwhile, can't resist flirting with the handsome stranger herself.
JB swears he's genuinely interested in courting Bobbie, explaining that he's a widower and not just playing the field. He admits he hasn't formally asked her out because he wants to get to know her properly first. But Isabella reminds him that time isn't on their side, and she's determined to look out for her sister. She gives JB the push he needs to finally make a move.
This isn't the first time Denton and McEntire have shared the screen. Denton had a recurring role as Dr. Jack Morgan on McEntire's earlier hit sitcom Reba, and their on-screen chemistry was undeniable. Series co-creator Kevin Abbott told TVLine that Denton was the only actor he considered for this role, citing their history together. "If Jamie does this, then I will buy the chemistry, and we can play what we need to play with this," Abbott said.
Fans of Reba will appreciate this nod to the past, as Denton's arrival feels like a spiritual successor to his earlier role. It's a chance to see the duo rekindle their magic, albeit in a new setting. And with the show's history of bringing in beloved guest stars, this addition is sure to be a highlight of the season.
For those who can't get enough of Denton, his role as Mike Delfino on Desperate Housewives remains a fan favorite. But in Happy's Place, he's bringing a different kind of charm, one that's sure to win over Bobbie and viewers alike. The episode airs Friday, November 13, on NBC.
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