Lainey Wilson Reveals the Heartfelt Hosting Advice Reba McEntire Gave Her Behind the Scenes at the CMA Awards
The 2025 CMA Awards were filled with unforgettable performances, surprise appearances, and major wins — but one of the most meaningful moments of the night happened away from the cameras. Rising country superstar Lainey Wilson, who continues to dominate the genre with her powerhouse voice and charismatic presence, shared a heartwarming behind-the-scenes story about none other than Reba McEntire — the woman she calls a mentor, an icon, and now, a guiding voice in her journey.
Just hours before stepping onto the CMA stage, Lainey revealed that she received a private pep talk from Reba herself, a country legend known not only for her unmatched career but also for her warmth, humor, and ability to command a room without ever raising her voice. According to Lainey, the advice Reba offered wasn’t just about hosting — it was about surviving the spotlight with grace.
“I’ll tell you what,” Lainey shared, smiling as she recalled the moment. “Reba pulled me aside backstage and said, ‘Honey, be yourself. Don’t try to host like anybody else. Don’t try to talk like anybody else. Just be Lainey — that’s who they came to see.’”
The words struck Lainey deeply. She admitted that despite her recent success, hosting a major awards show — even for just a segment — can feel intimidating. The bright lights, the timing, the jokes, the pressure of representing country music in front of millions — it’s a lot for even seasoned performers.
And that’s exactly why Reba’s advice meant so much.
“She looked me right in the eyes,” Lainey continued, “and she said, ‘When in doubt, imagine you’re talking to your mama. Keep it warm, keep it real, keep it yours.’ And honestly? That changed everything for me tonight.”
Reba McEntire, with her decades of hosting experience — including multiple CMA Awards ceremonies, ACM Awards, and countless TV appearances — knows better than anyone how to balance humor, professionalism, and heart. She also knows the emotional weight that young artists feel when stepping into roles previously held by icons.
Lainey admitted she felt the pressure, but Reba’s presence made it easier.
“She didn’t have to say anything to me,” Lainey said. “She could’ve walked right past. But that’s not Reba. She always stops. She always encourages. She always lifts people up. And that’s why she’s the queen.”
Behind the scenes, crew members and fellow artists witnessed the exchange and described it as “pure Reba” — supportive, genuine, and delivered with the kind of maternal strength only she possesses. Many said they were touched to see two generations of country women standing together in unity, one guiding the other with love instead of competition.
Throughout the night, Lainey’s confidence, charm, and effortless humor shone brightly onstage. Whether introducing performers, sharing jokes with co-hosts, or hyping up the crowd, she radiated the authenticity Reba encouraged in her.
Fans noticed.
Critics noticed.
And Lainey herself admitted she felt the difference.
“At one point, I was walking out there, and I could hear Reba’s voice in my head saying, ‘Be you, baby,’” Lainey said. “And suddenly I wasn’t nervous anymore.”
The moment has already gone viral on social media, with fans praising Reba’s kindness and Lainey’s humility. Many called it “the passing of the torch” — a symbolic reminder that country music grows stronger when artists lift one another up.
In a world where the spotlight can feel overwhelming, Lainey Wilson walked into hers with her head high — carrying not just her talent, but the wisdom of a woman who knows the road better than anyone.
Reba McEntire didn’t just give Lainey hosting advice.
She gave her courage.
And it showed.