Wild Card with Rachel Martin LeVar Burton is learning to embrace the chaos
Jul 18, 2024
LeVar Burton discusses embracing chaos in his life and career. He reflects on his iconic roles in Roots, Star Trek, and Reading Rainbow. The podcast explores his changing definitions of success, managing expectations, finding peace amid chaos, and evolving spiritual beliefs.
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Roots to Reading Rainbow Choice
- LeVar Burton chose to do Reading Rainbow despite his breakthrough role in Roots because reading was a deeply valued part of his upbringing.
- He saw TV as a powerful tool to turn children into lifelong readers through self-selection.
Success Means Balanced Time
- LeVar Burton redefined success from being busy to spending time well and balancing work with rest.
- He learned that recharging his energy is essential to sustaining the demanding work of being himself.
Embracing Career's Unique Impact
- LeVar Burton realized his career's impact did not have to match Roots and learned to manage expectations.
- He cherishes his "career crown" representing stories of Black experience from slavery to space, including Roots, Reading Rainbow, and Star Trek.