‘Happy’s Place’ Stars Reflect on Heart, Humor, and Found Family
*Now that NBC’s sitcom “Happy’s Place” has launched season 2, co-stars Melissa Peterman and Pablo Castelblanco are feeling the love. The show, led by Reba McEntire as Bobbie McAllister, follows a quirky group of employees working at a bar Bobbie unexpectedly inherited—and must share with a surprise half-sister.
Peterman plays Gabby, a talkative, eccentric bartender. Castelblanco is Steve, a germophobic accountant trying to keep the chaos in check. During a recent chat with EURweb’s Kenny Pettis Jr., the duo shared why audiences are connecting with the series so quickly.
Melissa: ‘Heart and Humor Are the Secret Sauce’
When asked why the show resonates, Peterman pointed to McEntire’s trademark balance of comedy and emotion.
“Reba’s always had this thing—she brings heart and humor together,” she said. “This is the family these characters needed to find.”
Castelblanco echoed that thought: “It feels like a hug,” he said. “It’s a great way to end your week. Our comedy comes from a place of laughing together. That’s the kind of content I want to consume today.”
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Pablo on Learning From Sitcom Legends
Castelblanco called himself “the most lucky man on earth,” working with sitcom veterans like Peterman and McEntire. “Melissa makes me laugh every day,” he said. “She comes up with alt lines off the cuff. I’ve learned so much from her, from Reba, and even from our younger castmates.”
He praised cast members like Belissa Escobedo, Tokala Black Elk, and Rex Linn for bringing unique energy and style to the set. “Each one of them teaches me something—whether it’s earnestness, gravitas, or unpredictability.”
Melissa on Pablo: ‘He’s a Precise Comedian’
Peterman returned the praise, saying Castelblanco’s timing and understanding of the multi-cam format are key.
“He knows why something is funny and how to make it funnier,” she said. “He’s specific about beats, staging, and delivery. I learn from Pablo all the time.”
Both actors agree that the show thrives because of the collaborative spirit on set. “We’re constantly learning from each other,” said Peterman.
Season 2 Brings Growth, Guest Stars, and New Journeys
Now that Season 2 has launched, the cast says the show is expanding beyond the bar.
“Season two is where a show can really open up and breathe,” said Peterman. “We know who these characters are now, and we get to see more of their lives outside the bar.”
Castelblanco added that Steve is pushing himself out of his comfort zone.
“He’s still trying to grow. Isabella’s on her journey too, finding herself as a young adult.”
What’s Next for Gabby, Steve, and the Crew?
Gabby’s character arc is also evolving.
“She’s on a journey of wanting a baby,” Peterman revealed. “And we’ve got some incredible guest stars this season—Christopher Lloyd, Carol Kane, and Joanna Garcia from the original ‘Reba’ show.”
The cast remains excited to deepen character relationships. Viewers can also expect more moments between Bobbie and Emmett, played by Reba McEntire and her real-life partner Rex Linn.
Meet the Cast of NBC’s ‘Happy’s Place’
- Reba McEntire as Bobbie McAllister
- Melissa Peterman as Gabby, the chatty bartender
- Pablo Castelblanco as Steve, the anxious accountant
- Belissa Escobedo as Isabella, Bobbie’s young half-sister
- Rex Linn as Emmett, a short-order cook
- Tokala Black Elk as Takoda, the waiter
Behind the Scenes: Real Chemistry, Real Comedy
“Happy’s Place” was created by sitcom veterans Julie Abbott and Kevin Abbott, who previously worked with McEntire on “Reba.” That history helps shape the show’s tone—equal parts warmth, laughs, and grounded storytelling.
“It’s not just about punchlines,” Castelblanco said. “It’s about people who’ve found a second chance, a new family. And that feels good to play.”
Season 2 of “Happy’s Place” airs on Fridays at 9/8c on NBC.
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