# LeVar Burton

> American actor, director, and television host (born 1957)

**Wikidata**: [Q312570](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q312570)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeVar_Burton)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/levar-burton

## Summary
LeVar Burton is an American actor, director, and television host born in 1957. He is best known for his roles in *Star Trek: The Next Generation* and as the host of the children's educational series *Reading Rainbow*, and has made significant contributions to television, film, and podcasting.

## Biography
- Born: February 16, 1957
- Nationality: United States
- Education: Attended the University of Southern California
- Known for: Playing Geordi La Forge in *Star Trek: The Next Generation* and hosting *Reading Rainbow*
- Employer(s): PBS (Reading Rainbow), Paramount (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
- Field(s): Acting, directing, television presenting, podcasting

## Contributions
LeVar Burton has made lasting contributions across multiple media formats:
- **Television**: Hosted and executive produced *Reading Rainbow* (1983–2006), a children's educational series that won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and inspired generations of young readers.
- **Acting**: Played the iconic role of Geordi La Forge in *Star Trek: The Next Generation* (1987–1994), becoming a beloved figure in science fiction.
- **Directing**: Directed episodes of *Star Trek: The Next Generation*, *TNG: First Contact*, and other series, contributing to the visual and narrative legacy of the franchise.
- **Podcasting**: Co-hosts the popular podcast *LeVar Burton Reads*, where he shares science fiction and fantasy short stories with listeners.
- **Voice Acting**: Provided voice work for animated series and video games, including narrating *Reading Rainbow* audiobooks and other educational content.
- **Awards & Recognition**: Recipient of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Daytime Emmy Awards, and the National Humanities Medal.

## FAQs
**What is LeVar Burton most famous for?**  
LeVar Burton is most famous for playing Geordi La Forge in *Star Trek: The Next Generation* and hosting the children's educational show *Reading Rainbow*, both of which have had a lasting cultural impact.

**Where has LeVar Burton worked?**  
He has worked extensively in television and film, notably with Paramount (for *Star Trek: The Next Generation*), PBS (for *Reading Rainbow*), and various production companies for his directorial and hosting work.

**What awards has LeVar Burton won?**  
He has received multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for his work on *Reading Rainbow*, a Grammy Award for Best Audio Book, Narration & Storytelling Recording, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He was also honored with the National Humanities Medal.

**What educational or cultural impact has LeVar Burton made?**  
Through *Reading Rainbow*, Burton helped promote literacy among children for over two decades, making educational content accessible and engaging. His work continues through his podcast and public speaking engagements.

**What other roles or projects is LeVar Burton involved in?**  
In addition to *Star Trek* and *Reading Rainbow*, Burton has directed episodes of *TNG* and other series, co-hosts the podcast *LeVar Burton Reads*, and has contributed voice work to various media.

## Why They Matter
LeVar Burton has played a pivotal role in shaping American children's television and science fiction media. His work on *Reading Rainbow* significantly advanced children's literacy and made educational content more accessible. As Geordi La Forge in *Star Trek: The Next Generation*, he broke new ground for representation of Black characters in science fiction. His continued influence through podcasting and public advocacy for education and diversity underscores his lasting cultural impact.

## Notable For
- Hosting and executive producing *Reading Rainbow* for 23 years
- Playing Geordi La Forge in *Star Trek: The Next Generation*
- Co-hosting the podcast *LeVar Burton Reads*
- Receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Winning multiple Daytime Emmy Awards
- Receiving the National Humanities Medal
- Being a voice actor and director in film and television
- Advocating for children's literacy and education

## Body

### Early Life and Education
LeVar Burton was born on February 16, 1957. He attended the University of Southern California, where he studied theater and film. His early interest in the arts laid the foundation for a career that would span decades and influence multiple generations.

### Acting Career
Burton's breakout role came in 1977 when he played Kunta Kinte in the landmark miniseries *Roots*, based on Alex Haley’s novel. This role brought him national attention and critical acclaim. In 1987, he joined the cast of *Star Trek: The Next Generation* as Geordi La Forge, a role he played for seven seasons. His portrayal of the character, a blind engineer with a cybernetic visual aid, was widely praised for its depth and representation.

### Television Hosting and Production
From 1983 to 2006, Burton hosted and served as executive producer of *Reading Rainbow*, a PBS children’s series that encouraged reading and won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards. The show became a cultural institution, and Burton’s warm presence made him a trusted figure in American households. He later revived the show in digital formats and continued its mission through new media.

### Directing and Behind-the-Camera Work
In addition to acting, Burton directed episodes of *Star Trek: The Next Generation* and other series, including *TNG: First Contact*. His directorial work demonstrated his versatility and commitment to storytelling beyond performing.

### Voice Acting and Audiobooks
Burton has lent his voice to numerous projects, including narrating *Reading Rainbow* audiobooks. His voice work has earned him a Grammy Award for Best Audio Book, Narration & Storytelling Recording, recognizing his contributions to spoken word media.

### Podcasting
In 2017, Burton launched *LeVar Burton Reads*, a podcast where he shares science fiction and fantasy short stories. The show has gained a loyal following and showcases Burton’s continued passion for storytelling and literature.

### Awards and Recognition
Burton has received numerous honors, including:
- A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for *Reading Rainbow*
- A Grammy Award for his audiobook narration
- The National Humanities Medal, awarded by the President of the United States

### Public Advocacy and Influence
Burton has been a vocal advocate for children’s literacy, educational equity, and representation in media. His influence extends beyond entertainment into social impact, as he continues to mentor young creators and promote inclusive storytelling.

### Legacy
LeVar Burton’s legacy spans multiple domains: from his iconic role in *Star Trek* to his decades-long commitment to children’s education through *Reading Rainbow*. His work has inspired countless individuals and continues to resonate in new generations through digital platforms and public engagement.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. Integrated Authority File
3. [Source](http://file770.com/2020-ignyte-awards/)
4. [Source](https://www.neh.gov/award/levar-burton)
5. International Standard Name Identifier
6. Virtual International Authority File
7. Kinorium
8. SNAC
9. Internet Speculative Fiction Database
10. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
11. [LeVar Burton | Open Library](https://openlibrary.org/authors/OL534884A/LeVar_Burton)
12. Norwegian Authority File: Persons and Corporate Bodies
13. MusicBrainz
14. [LeVar Burton: film, foto](https://movieplayer.it/personaggi/levar-burton_2387/)
15. The Movie Database
16. [Source](https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/LeVar_Burton?oldid=2387422)
17. [Source](https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/de/wiki/LeVar_Burton?oldid=717876)
18. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data
19. [LeVar Burton - DataTrek](https://data.wikitrek.org/wiki/Item:Q5403)
20. [Source](https://www.podchaser.com/creators/levar-burton-107ZzlO6Hn/appearances)