LeVar Burton has been a star, director and television host for decades. From his role in Roots to his time on “Reading Rainbow,” Burton has demonstrated artistic range at its best. Beyond the performances and educational adventures, how much has this television icon made financially?
Early Life and Education
Born Levardis Robert Martyn Burton Jr. in Landsthul, West Germany in 1957, LeVar had a mixed cultural upbringing. A love of learning came from his mother – a social worker and educator.
His primary education is unknown but his family moved to Sacramento, California, where he began acting. Then he attended Christian Brothers High School in drama productions. At 13, LeVar considered going to seminary to become a priest. He loved theatre more, however. Then he trained as an actor and attended the University of Southern California’s School of Theatre, laying the foundation for his future in outstanding performances.
Net Worth
LeVar Burton has amassed a net worth of around USD 14 million.
Factors That Contribute to His Net Worth
The factors that have helped make LeVar Burton so rich are as follows:
Breakout Role in “Roots”: Launching a Stellar Career
LeVar Burton’s breakout role arguably came as Kunta Kinte in the 1990 miniseries Roots. This powerful performance made him a star at age 19. Detailed salary information for his role in “Roots” is unavailable, but the miniseries ‘critical acclaim and popular appeal likely provided lucrative opportunities for the young actor.
Television Success: From “Star Trek: The Next Generation to “Reading Rainbow”
Following Roots, LeVar Burton continued to fill television screens with iconic roles. He played Geordi La Forge in “Star Trek: the Next Generation,” in which he plays a blind engineer. He became a household name also for hosting the educational children’s program “Reading Rainbow” for more than 20 years. Specific salary information is sparse but actors of his caliber on successful shows like “Star Trek” probably command high fees. A long running children’s program also probably provided some income.
Voice Acting and Directing
Other than on-screen appearances, LeVar Burton has lent his voice to various animated projects – another Potential source of income. He has also directed for fun.
Details about his voice acting projects and directorial fees are scarce but could have added to his net worth.
Investments
With his sizeable net worth, LeVar Burton probably has a diversified investment portfolio. Real estate, stocks or other investments can make an actor rich and create additional income streams. Less is known about LeVar Burton’s specific investments but sound financial decisions probably helped his net worth.
Conclusion
LeVar Burton net worth reflects his acting talent as well as his dedication to education and encouraging children to read. He has always promoted literacy and inspired future generations.
LeVar Burton remains in the entertainment business today. Currently he continues to act, voice act and pursue other creative endeavors. This dedication keeps him connected with the audience.
