Levar Burton Fan Mail Address:
Levar Burton
Three Blankets, Inc.
13547 Ventura Blvd
Suite 209
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423-3825
USA
Address Info:
Three Blankets, Inc.
(Production Company)
13547 Ventura Blvd
Suite 209
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423-3825
USA
LeVar Burton, born on February 16, 1957, in Landstuhl, West Germany, is an accomplished American actor, director, and author. He is widely recognized for his memorable roles in the television series “Roots” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” as well as his influential hosting of the beloved children’s educational program “Reading Rainbow.” Let’s delve deeper into the life and career of LeVar Burton:
LeVar Burton’s passion for acting surfaced at a young age. Growing up in Sacramento, California, he exhibited a keen interest in the performing arts and actively participated in local theater productions. Following his high school education at Christian Brothers High School, Burton enrolled at the University of Southern California, where he pursued studies in theater arts, honing his craft and laying the foundation for his future career.
Burton’s breakthrough came in 1977 when he secured the role of Kunta Kinte in the landmark television miniseries “Roots.” Based on Alex Haley’s novel, the series depicted the harrowing story of an African man sold into slavery in America. Burton’s portrayal of Kunta Kinte garnered widespread acclaim, earning him critical recognition and a nomination for an Emmy Award. The role not only catapulted Burton into the limelight but also established him as a talented actor capable of delivering powerful performances.
However, it was his tenure as the host of the long-running children’s series “Reading Rainbow” that cemented LeVar Burton as a beloved figure in the hearts of millions. From 1983 to 2006, Burton captivated young audiences with his warm and engaging presence, encouraging a love for reading and promoting literacy. “Reading Rainbow” garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Daytime Emmy Awards, and became an iconic program that inspired generations of children to explore the world of books.
In addition to his role on “Reading Rainbow,” LeVar Burton made a significant impact on the science fiction genre through his portrayal of Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge in the acclaimed series “Star Trek: The Next Generation” (1987-1994). La Forge, the chief engineer aboard the USS Enterprise, captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. Burton’s portrayal of the character, known for his iconic visor that granted him sight, resonated deeply with fans. He reprised the role in four “Star Trek” films, solidifying his place in the franchise’s rich history.
Beyond his acting career, Burton has expanded his repertoire to include directing and producing. He helmed several episodes of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “Star Trek: Voyager,” showcasing his creative vision behind the camera. Moreover, he produced and hosted the documentary series “The Science of Peace” and served as an executive producer for the television series “LeVar Burton Reads,” further exemplifying his multifaceted talents.
LeVar Burton has also made significant contributions as an author and education advocate. His dedication to promoting literacy and education led him to write a series of children’s books, including “The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm” and “The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm Workbook.” Additionally, Burton has been a vocal advocate for reading and accessibility to books for children, underscoring the importance of literacy as a foundation for personal growth and success.
In recent years, LeVar Burton has continued to be involved in various projects and has emerged as a prominent voice in social and political discussions. His impact as an actor, host, and advocate for education and literacy has left a lasting legacy, inspiring countless individuals to embrace the power of reading and storytelling.