Kelsea Ballerini Feels ‘Blessed’ to Have Reba McEntire’s Guidance as She Takes Over ‘The Voice’ Role

Kelsea Ballerini is nervous but hugely excited to be replacing Reba McEntire on The Voice and source exclusively tells Life & Style she’s been asking for tips about how to handle the spotlight, which her country-star mentor is only too happy to offer.

“Reba is just as darling as she seems on TV, she’s the type of person that wants everyone to win and she actually takes it one step farther and does what she can to help,” the source says. “She loved her time on The Voice and learned a lot and she’s all about passing on the knowledge.”

Reba, 69, coached contestants on the show throughout seasons 24, 25 and 26 before giving up her chair to newcomer Kelsea. The insider notes the “I’m a Survivor” singer has gone above and beyond to ready her replacement for the big job.

“She knows Kelsea is a professional, it’s not like she thinks she needs schooling, but at the same time she’s always been appreciative when anyone helped her in the past, so she’s paying that forward,” the source says.

The newest coach even discovered a sweet letter from the country singer during the first episode of the season, which aired on February 3. “Dear Kelsea, I heard you would be the new coach this season and I’m just so excited for you. It’s up to you to keep country alive on the show and I know you’ll do a terrific job,” the note read. “Now go out there and show those boys who’s the boss.”

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The source says that for Kelsea, Reba taking the time to properly warm her up to the new job is especially meaningful, considering how highly the young country star regards the legendary musician.

“Kelsea looks up to Reba, she’s an icon and she totally acknowledges that and feels very blessed to have her guidance.”

The 31-year-old multi-platinum singer now sits on a panel of huge-name judges, including Adam Levine, Michael Bublé and John Legend. The impressive line up may have her feeling a bit intimidated, which is something Reba wants to knead right out of her if she’s to make her own mark on the show.

“The other coaches are being equally wonderful, but having Reba on speed dial for any questions is beyond exciting for Kelsea,” the insider adds. “Reba is a country music legend, those aren’t easy boots to fill so to have Reba herself giving her tips is huge.”

Reba even left her replacement a gift beyond the letter of encouragement and the open-door policy regarding future advice and guidance: a crown that had signified her status as “Queen Reba” before leaving the show. As the new country royal on the program, Kelsea has a lot to live up to following in her idol’s footsteps. She told Women’s Health in October 2024 she was ready to face all the good – and bad – that comes with her new position on The Voice, saying the coaching role would be “the first time I’m putting myself in a position where people are just not going to like me.”

The source acknowledges Reba’s crown won’t be easy to wear and that “Kelsea’s got serious nerves, so she’s taking full advantage of all the advice and really grateful.”