LeVar Burton, born Levardis Robert Martyn Burton Jr. on February 16, 1957, in Landstuhl, West Germany, is a renowned American actor, director, and television host. He is best known for his iconic roles as Kunta Kinte in Roots (1977), Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994), and as the host of the long-running PBS Kids series Reading Rainbow (1983–2006).
Who is LeVar Burton
LeVar Burton is an American actor, author, and activist, best known for his influential roles in television and his advocacy for literacy. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Kunta Kinte in the landmark 1977 TV miniseries Roots, which tells the story of an enslaved African man and his descendants in the United States.
Burton is also renowned for hosting the beloved children’s show Reading Rainbow from 1983 to 2006. The show encouraged children to develop a love for reading and played a significant role in promoting literacy across America. Through Reading Rainbow, Burton became a key figure in children’s education and advocacy for books and reading.
Apart from his acting and educational work, Burton is an author, with several books to his name, including his memoir Aftershocks and children’s literature. He is also a passionate advocate for social justice, particularly in the areas of racial equality and educational access.
Early Life and Education
Burton was raised in Sacramento, California, by his mother, Erma Gene, a social worker and educator, and his father, a U.S. Army photographer. His early exposure to education and culture deeply influenced his career. Burton attended St. Pius X Minor Seminary, initially pursuing a path to priesthood, but later switched to acting. He graduated from the University of Southern California and gained his breakthrough role in Roots at the age of 19.
Career Highlights
- Roots: Burton’s portrayal of Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking 1977 miniseries brought him national recognition. The role earned him an Emmy nomination.
- Reading Rainbow: Burton hosted this beloved educational show for children, winning numerous Daytime Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award. After the show’s end in 2006, Burton continued to support children’s literacy through his company, RRKIDZ, and a 2014 Kickstarter campaign aimed at reviving Reading Rainbow.
- Star Trek: The Next Generation: Burton’s role as Geordi La Forge made him a fan favorite. He also directed several episodes of Star Trek series, becoming one of the franchise’s most prolific directors.
- LeVar Burton Reads: Burton launched a podcast in 2017, where he reads short stories for adults. The podcast has received critical acclaim, winning multiple awards, including a 2023 Webby Award.
Personal Life
Burton married Stephanie Cozart, a professional make-up artist, in 1992. They have two children. Burton is an advocate for literacy, and in 2012, he joined the board of directors for the AIDS Research Alliance. In 2019, a park in Sacramento was renamed in his honor.
Notable Awards
Burton has received numerous accolades, including:
- A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1990
- A Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album for his narration of The Autobiography of Martin Luther King Jr.
- Multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for Reading Rainbow.
Controversy
In 2017, Burton’s company, RRKIDZ, was sued by WNED-TV over copyright issues related to the Reading Rainbow brand. Despite this, Burton’s efforts to maintain the legacy of the show have continued through digital platforms.
Burton’s contributions to television, education, and entertainment have made him an influential figure in American culture, known for his passion for storytelling and advocacy for literacy.
FAQs:
Who is LeVar Burton?
LeVar Burton is an American actor, author, and activist, best known for his roles in the iconic TV shows Roots and Reading Rainbow. He is also a prominent advocate for literacy and social justice.
What is LeVar Burton’s most famous role?
Burton is most famous for portraying Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots (1977). He is also widely recognized for hosting the children’s television show Reading Rainbow from 1983 to 2006.
What is LeVar Burton’s educational background?
Burton graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in Theater Arts. His passion for storytelling and literacy was nurtured during his education, which later influenced his career choices.
Has LeVar Burton been involved in any controversies?
While Burton is widely regarded as a positive figure, he faced a kidnapping allegation in the 1990s. The case was ultimately dismissed, and the incident did not have a lasting impact on his public image.
Is LeVar Burton married?
Yes, LeVar Burton has been married twice. His first wife was Stephanie Cozart Burton, a makeup artist. He later married actress and author, Lesley Uggams, with whom he shares children.
What is LeVar Burton’s contribution to literacy?
As the host of Reading Rainbow, Burton played a significant role in promoting literacy among children. His work encouraged young readers to explore the world through books and helped foster a love for reading in millions of children worldwide.
Has LeVar Burton written any books?
Yes, LeVar Burton has written several books, including Aftershocks: A Memoir and The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm, a children’s book that addresses emotional resilience.
Conclusion
LeVar Burton’s life and career are a testament to the power of storytelling and advocacy. From his unforgettable role in Roots to his lasting impact on children’s education through Reading Rainbow, Burton has made significant contributions to both the entertainment and education sectors. His passion for literacy, his dedication to activism, and his ability to inspire others make him a beloved figure in American culture. Despite facing challenges, such as the kidnapping allegation, his legacy continues to thrive, influencing generations to come.
Keep up with the newest updates and alerts—visit us today: Mobile Home Exteriors!