Get to the Heart: The Barbara Mandrell Story 1997

Early talent spotted by Joe Maphis

While helping her father in a Texas music store, Barbara Mandrell gives an impromptu steel guitar performance that catches the eye of country guitarist Joe Maphis. Maphis invites her to perform in his Las Vegas and Los Angeles shows, offering an early peek at professional life.

Travel life disrupts family

The relentless travel of show business proves too much for her parents and younger sisters, forcing a pause in their family life. Mandrell continues performing locally with her family's band, keeping the dream alive while the road calls less loudly.

Love blooms with Ken Dudney

Mandrell falls in love with the band's drummer Ken Dudney, but Irby disapproves because of their age difference. Dudney enlists in the U.S. Navy, adding distance and complexity to the couple's relationship.

Marriage and naval life begins

Irby eventually accepts the relationship, and Barbara and Ken marry in 1967. They move to a Navy base on Whidbey Island, Washington, where Mandrell plans to settle down and step away from performing.

Grand Ole Opry rekindles dream

During a deployment, the couple visits the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, where Barbara realizes she still loves performing. She resolves to pursue her dream of making it in the music industry.

Nashville nights launch career

With Irby serving as manager, Mandrell begins performing in local Nashville nightclubs, building her reputation. A record executive notices her, leading to a signing with a major label.

First child and new support

Barbara and Ken discover they are expecting their first child, Matthew. Ken leaves the Navy to support Barbara on the road as her career begins to take off.

Hit-making decade

Backed by her family, Mandrell tours the country and racks up a string of hit singles throughout the 1970s. Her growing success cements her status as one of country music's rising stars.

Irby suffers a heart attack

While in the middle of a tour, Irby suffers a heart attack and urges Barbara not to pause her career for him. She presses on, balancing demanding schedules with her family life and aspirations.

Second child and CMA year

Barbara and Ken welcome their second child, Jaime, as she becomes one of the era's biggest stars. In 1980 she wins the Country Music Association Award for Entertainer of the Year, cementing her peak stardom.

Move to California for a TV show

The family moves to California after her 1980 success, where Mandrell lands her own network television show. Despite some pushback from executives, the show proves a ratings hit and raises her national profile.

Balancing fame and family takes a toll

The hectic schedule strains family life and Mandrell's health begins to suffer from overwork. Dudney urges her to quit the show to focus on her health and family.

Car accident and memory loss

In 1984, during a break from touring, Mandrell and her children are involved in a car accident. She survives with head trauma that leads to memory loss and mood swings, leaving her reclusive and vulnerable to media speculation.

Healing and reconciliation

Following an intervention by Dudney, Mandrell confronts the distance she has put between herself and her loved ones and begins to repair those relationships. The couple welcomes their third child, Nathan, soon after.