Abstract: Direct-lit light backlights and associated methods and components are disclosed. The backlight has an output area such as a front diffuser behind which a plurality of light sources are disposed. A diverter having a first and second reflective surface is disposed between at least two light sources and the front diffuser. The first reflective surface is obliquely disposed to redirect at least some of the light emitted by the light source towards the front diffuser away from the front diffuser. The second reflective surface is obliquely disposed to redirect at least some light propagating laterally relative to the front diffuser towards the front diffuser.