LeVar Burton is a versatile American talent known for his work as an actor, author, director, producer, and presenter.
Notable achievements and groundbreaking roles have marked Burton’s impressive net worth of $6 million.
His rise to fame began in 1977 with a stellar debut as Kunta Kinte in the iconic ABC drama series “Roots.”
Amazingly, this was Burton’s first professional acting audition, yet his performance earned him an Emmy nomination for Best Actor in a Drama Series.
Beyond “Roots,” LeVar Burton’s multifaceted career continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, making him a unique figure in the entertainment industry.
LeVar Burton Wiki/Bio
- Net Worth: $6 Million
- Birthdate: February 16, 1957 (67 years old)
- Birthplace: Landstuhl Regional Medical Center
- Gender: Male
- Height: 5 ft 7 in (1.702 m)
- Profession: Actor, Television Director, Author, Presenter, Television producer, Voice Actor, Film director Nationality: United States of America
Early Life
He was born on February 16, 1957, in Landstuhl, West Germany, where his father served as a photographer for the U.S.
Army. Burton’s family later moved to Sacramento, California, where he was raised by his mother, Erma Gene, a social worker, educator, and administrator.
From a young age, Burton exhibited a keen interest in performing arts, which led him to enroll at the University of Southern California School of Theatre after graduating from high school.
His early exposure to diverse cultures and his academic background laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in the entertainment industry.
He grew up in a supportive family environment along with his three sisters.
His mother, Erma Gene Christian, played a significant role in shaping his early life and instilling in him the values of education and hard work.
As a social worker and educator, Erma was deeply committed to community service, which undoubtedly influenced Burton’s inclination toward advocacy and literacy.
Wife and Kids
LeVar Burton’s personal life is as fulfilling as his professional career. He married Stephanie Cozart, a professional makeup artist, on OctoOctober 392.
The couple has two children: a daughter named Michaela “Mica,” born in 1994, and a son named Eian, born in 2002.
The Burton family shares a close bond. They often support one another’s endeavors and appear together at public events.
Mica Burton has followed in her father’s footsteps, becoming an actress and host, showcasing the inspiring influence LeVar has had on his family.
Burton’s family life is supportive and loving, a testament to the strong values his upbringing instilled in him.
Height and Weight
He is approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall and maintains a healthy weight that reflects his active lifestyle.
His presence, both on-screen and off-screen, displays a charisma and energy that are undoubtedly part of his enduring appeal.
Burton’s dedication to maintaining his health and fitness has enabled him to continue working actively in the entertainment industry.
Career Milestones
After his groundbreaking performance in “Roots,” Burton embarked on a career that spanned various facets of the entertainment industry.
In 1983, he became the beloved host of “Reading Rainbow,” a children’s television series that encouraged young readers and promoted the joy of reading.
The show ran for an impressive 23 years, garnering numerous awards, including over 20 Emmy Awards.
Burton’s role as the show’s host and executive producer cemented his legacy as an advocate for education and literacy. In addition to his work on “Reading Rainbow,” Burton continued to make waves in the acting world.
He joined the cast of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” in 1987, portraying the character of Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge.
This role not only showcased Burton’s versatility as an actor but also introduced him to a new generation of fans. Burton’s portrayal of Geordi La Forge remains one of the most memorable and iconic roles in the Star Trek franchise.
Throughout his career, Burton has directed and produced numerous television episodes and films.
His directorial efforts include episodes of “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” “Star Trek: Voyager,” and “Star Trek: Enterprise.”
Additionally, he has directed several films and television movies, further demonstrating his multifaceted talents.
Television and Film Roles
An impressive array of roles across film and television marks his career. In the 80s, he starred in notable TV films like “The Jesse Owens Story” and “The Midnight Hour.”
He also made guest appearances on popular shows such as “The Love Boat,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “Houston Knights,” and played a role in the zombie horror film.
“The Supernaturals.” Notably, in 1988, he reprised his iconic role as Kunta Kinte in “Roots: The Gift.” From 1990 to 1996, Burton brought life to Kwame in the animated superhero series
“Captain Planet and the Planeteers.” Throughout the 90s, he continued to diversify his portfolio with appearances on “Christy,” “Deadly Games,” “Pinky and the Brain,” and “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.”
In the early 2000s, Burton portrayed Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. in the biopic “Ali” and appeared in TV shows like “Becker” and “Boomtown.”
His later works include “The Jensen Project,” “Community,” “The Big Bang Theory,” “Transformers: Rescue Bots,” “Perception,” and “Weird City.”
In 2021, Burton gained widespread attention as a guest host on “Jeopardy!” following the passing of the legendary Alex Trebek.
Net Worth
LeVar Burton’s net Worth in 2024 is estimated to be around $6 million. This impressive fortune is mainly attributed to his successful career as an actor, director, and television host.
Additionally, Burton’s entrepreneurial ventures, including his production company, have contributed to his wealth.
However, it is worth noting that Burton’s true legacy lies not in the monetary value of his success but in the countless lives he has touched through his work as an artist and advocate.
Real Estate Investments
LeVar has also made significant investments in real estate, which have contributed to his overall net Worth.
Over the years, he has purchased several properties, including a luxurious home in Sherman Oaks, California, where he resides with his family.
This property features modern amenities and offers a serene and comfortable environment for Burton to unwind from his busy professional life.
Additionally, Burton’s real estate portfolio includes rental properties that provide a steady stream of passive income, showcasing his understanding of financial investments and market trends.
His strategic approach to real estate underscores his ability to diversify his assets and secure his financial future while maintaining a focus on his passions for the arts and education.
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Philanthropy and Advocacy
Apart from his work in entertainment, LeVar Burton is deeply committed to philanthropy and advocacy, particularly in the areas of literacy and education.
His efforts in this domain are most prominently showcased through his work with “Reading Rainbow.” Even after the original series ended.
Burton continued to promote literacy and the joy of reading by launching the Reading Rainbow app, making the treasured content accessible to a new generation of readers.
Burton also supports various charitable organizations, such as the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and participates in numerous events aimed at combating social injustices and advocating for human rights.
His advocacy work further solidifies his position as a positive role model and a tireless champion for education and equality.
Hobbies
- Reading: As an advocate for literacy, it comes as no surprise that LeVar Burton enjoys reading a wide range of books. His love for literature continues to inspire his work and personal life.
- Traveling: Burton loves to travel and explore new cultures. His travels have allowed him to gain a broader perspective of the world, enriching both his personal and professional life.
- Photography: LeVar is passionate about photography. Capturing moments through the lens allows him to express his creativity and uniquely document his experiences.
- Gardening: Burton enjoys being close to nature through gardening. It offers him a tranquil escape from his busy schedule, allowing him to relax and unwind.
- Music: Music plays a significant role in Burton’s life. He enjoys listening to a variety of genres, which helps him relax and find inspiration.
- Cycling: Burton often engages in cycling to maintain his active lifestyle. This not only keeps him physically fit but also allows him to explore the outdoors and clear his mind.
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FAQs
What is LeVar Burton’s most famous role?
LeVar Burton’s most famous role is that of Geordi La Forge in the television series “Star Trek: The Next Generation.”
Is LeVar Burton still married?
Yes, LeVar Burton is still married to his wife, Stephanie Cozart Burton, a professional makeup artist. The couple has been married since 1992 and shares a strong, enduring relationship.
What is LeVar Burton doing now?
LeVar Burton continues to be actively involved in various projects, including hosting and producing podcasts, participating in public speaking engagements, and advocating for literacy and education through various platforms.
He remains a prominent figure in both the entertainment industry and educational advocacy, continuing to inspire and educate audiences worldwide.
How much could LeVar Burton see?
LeVar Burton has normal vision. The visual impairments of his character, Geordi La Forge, in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” are purely fictional and do not reflect Burton’s real-life eyesight.
Conclusion
LeVar Burton’s journey from an influential actor to a dedicated advocate for literacy and education showcases his remarkable versatility and commitment to making a positive impact.
Throughout his career, he has seamlessly woven his passion for storytelling, education, and advocacy into everything he does, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends the entertainment industry.
His endeavors with “Reading Rainbow” and various charitable organizations continue to inspire millions, demonstrating the profound difference one individual can make when they leverage their platform for the greater good.
As he continues to thrive in his career and personal pursuits, LeVar Burton remains a beacon of inspiration, encouraging future generations to dream big, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of a great story.