Early Start
As a teenager, LeVar Burton initially planned to become a priest, but at 17, he chose to pursue acting. While still a university student at 19, he landed his iconic, breakthrough role in the major television miniseries Roots.
Key Achievements
- Hosted and executive produced the beloved PBS show Reading Rainbow for 23 seasons
- Starred as Kunta Kinte in the acclaimed miniseries Roots
- Played Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation
- Won 12 Daytime Emmy Awards, a Peabody Award, and a Grammy Award
Why They Inspire Us
LeVar Burton's lifelong dedication to promoting literacy and education through television makes him an inspiring role model. His work on Reading Rainbow taught millions of children that reading is a fun and exciting adventure.