LeVar Burton’s net worth is estimated at $6 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. However, this is an unofficial estimate, and the actor has not publicly confirmed his personal wealth. Best known for Roots, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Reading Rainbow, Burton has built a decades-long career through acting, television hosting, directing, producing, writing, and podcasting. In November 2026, he is also preparing to release his memoir, Take My Word for It. Celebrity Net Worth+1
LeVar Burton has spent nearly five decades building a career in television, film, education, and entertainment. From his breakthrough performance as Kunta Kinte in the landmark television miniseries Roots to his portrayal of Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation, he has become one of the most recognizable personalities in American television.
As of November 2026, LeVar Burton’s net worth is estimated at approximately $6 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This figure is a third-party estimate rather than an officially confirmed financial disclosure. Burton has not publicly released a complete breakdown of his assets, investments, debts, property holdings, or lifetime earnings. Celebrity Net Worth+1
Unlike some Hollywood celebrities whose financial success is primarily associated with blockbuster movies, Burton has developed a career across several areas. His professional activities include acting, directing, producing, television presenting, children’s publishing, and podcasting.
His long association with Reading Rainbow also gave him a distinctive place in children’s education and literacy advocacy.
In 2026, Burton remains professionally active. He continues to host and executive produce The CW’s Trivial Pursuit, while his memoir, Take My Word for It, is scheduled for publication by Random House on November 10, 2026.
Here is a closer look at LeVar Burton’s estimated wealth, career achievements, entertainment projects, and the professional activities that have contributed to his financial journey.
What Is LeVar Burton’s Net Worth in 2026?
LeVar Burton’s estimated net worth is $6 million, based on the figure published by Celebrity Net Worth.
The estimate reflects his long entertainment career, but there is no publicly available audited financial statement that independently confirms the amount.
It is important to understand that net worth and career earnings are different.
Net worth represents the estimated value of someone’s assets after subtracting liabilities. Career earnings refer to the total income generated over the years before accounting for taxes, expenses, investments, and other financial obligations.
Burton’s financial activities have included several professional areas:
- Acting in television and film productions.
- Hosting and executive producing educational television.
- Directing television episodes and films.
- Producing entertainment projects.
- Writing children’s books and other publications.
- Hosting podcasts and developing audio content.
- Hosting and executive producing Trivial Pursuit.
The exact contribution of each activity to his personal fortune is not publicly disclosed.
Celebrity Net Worth also lists a historical reported figure of $100,000 per episode for Star Trek: The Next Generation. However, its page does not provide a detailed contract or independent documentation supporting that figure, so it should not be treated as a verified salary record. Celebrity Net Worth
Key Details About LeVar Burton
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | Levardis Robert Martyn Burton Jr. |
| Known professionally as | LeVar Burton |
| Date of birth | February 16, 1957 |
| Birthplace | Landstuhl, West Germany |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actor, director, producer, author and television host |
| Estimated net worth | $6 million |
| Breakthrough project | Roots (1977) |
| Famous television role | Geordi La Forge |
| Popular children’s show | Reading Rainbow |
| Current television project | Trivial Pursuit |
| Wife | Stephanie Cozart-Burton |
The biographical details are supported by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, Library of Congress, and other institutional biographies. The net worth figure comes from Celebrity Net Worth and is not officially verified. Astronaut Scholarship Foundation+2
How Did LeVar Burton Make His Money?
Burton’s wealth is associated with a career that developed across different forms of entertainment.
His biggest professional milestones include Roots, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Reading Rainbow. These projects helped establish his reputation and opened opportunities in acting, television production, directing, and other creative work.
Let’s examine his major career achievements and potential income sources.
1. Roots: The Television Role That Made LeVar Burton Famous
One of the most important moments in LeVar Burton’s career came in 1977 when he made his professional acting debut as Kunta Kinte in the ABC television miniseries Roots.
Based on Alex Haley’s bestselling novel Roots: The Saga of an American Family, the miniseries explored the history of an African American family across generations, beginning with the story of an African man captured and enslaved in America.
Burton was only 19 years old when he portrayed the young Kunta Kinte.
The performance brought him widespread attention and established him as a serious acting talent.
According to the National Endowment for the Humanities, Burton’s portrayal of Kunta Kinte made him a household name. The role was also Emmy-nominated and became one of the defining performances of his career. National Endowment for the Humanities+1
The importance of Roots went beyond entertainment. The miniseries became a significant cultural event, bringing conversations about slavery, African American history, identity, and representation into millions of homes.
For Burton, the project provided an opportunity to build a long-term career in television.
How did Roots contribute to his wealth?
The exact salary Burton received for Roots has not been publicly verified. However, the role helped establish his professional reputation and created opportunities for future television and film work.
It would be inaccurate to assign a specific financial amount to the project without a reliable contract or payment record.
2. Star Trek: The Next Generation and Geordi La Forge
Another major source of professional recognition for Burton was his role as Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation.
The science-fiction television series premiered in 1987 and ran until 1994.
Burton portrayed Geordi La Forge, an engineer aboard the USS Enterprise-D. The character was known for his technical expertise and his distinctive visual device, the VISOR, which helped him perceive his surroundings.
The role was significant for several reasons.
First, it introduced Burton to a global science-fiction audience.
Second, it allowed him to become part of one of television’s most successful science-fiction franchises.
Third, it gave him opportunities to work behind the camera.
Burton also directed episodes of Star Trek and other television productions, expanding his professional experience beyond acting.
The Library of Congress recognizes his portrayal of Geordi La Forge as one of his major television achievements. The Library of Congress+1
Did LeVar Burton earn a lot from Star Trek?
Celebrity Net Worth lists a reported salary of $100,000 per episode for Burton’s Star Trek: The Next Generation work.
However, the figure is not accompanied by a publicly verified contract or comprehensive payment history.
His exact earnings from the original television series, subsequent films, and later franchise appearances remain undisclosed. Celebrity Net Worth
Burton reprised the role in Star Trek: Picard in 2023, returning to a character that had become closely associated with his career.
The return demonstrated the lasting popularity of Geordi La Forge among longtime franchise fans. The University of Texas at Arlington+1
3. Reading Rainbow: His Most Recognized Educational Television Achievement
For many viewers, LeVar Burton is remembered not only as a television actor but also as the warm and encouraging host of Reading Rainbow.
The PBS children’s educational series premiered in 1983, with Burton serving as host and executive producer.
The show’s central purpose was to encourage children to develop a love of reading.
Each episode introduced young audiences to books through storytelling, real-world experiences, educational visits, and recommendations from children.
Burton’s ability to communicate with young viewers helped make the series an important part of American children’s television.
The National Endowment for the Humanities explains that the program was created to address declining reading during school vacations and encourage children to explore literature. National Endowment for the Humanities
The Library of Congress records Burton’s hosting and executive-producing tenure from 1983 to 2006. It also highlights the awards he received for his work on the program, including 12 Daytime Emmy Awards, five NAACP Image Awards, and a Peabody Award. The Library of Congress
Did Reading Rainbow make LeVar Burton wealthy?
Reading Rainbow was a major part of Burton’s professional identity, but its direct contribution to his personal wealth is not publicly established.
He worked as both host and executive producer, which meant his involvement extended beyond appearing in front of the camera.
However, there is no reliable public financial breakdown showing his total salary, production compensation, royalties, or ownership-related income from the original series.
It is important not to assume that the show’s popularity translated directly into personal earnings of a particular amount.
The show’s cultural influence and Burton’s professional contribution are much better documented than the financial details of his involvement.
4. Reading Rainbow Digital Revival and the $5 Million Kickstarter Campaign
After the original Reading Rainbow television program ended, Burton remained interested in bringing educational reading experiences to children through digital platforms.
In 2014, he launched a Kickstarter campaign associated with bringing Reading Rainbow back to children through digital technology.
The campaign attracted extraordinary public support.
It reached its initial $1 million fundraising goal within 24 hours and ultimately raised more than $5 million.
The initiative aimed to expand access to reading resources, including educational content for children and classroom subscriptions. Georgia Public Broadcasting+1
However, the campaign’s fundraising total should not be interpreted as Burton’s personal income.
Crowdfunding money was raised for the project’s stated purposes and associated development activities. It was not a disclosed personal payment to Burton.
What happened to the Reading Rainbow digital business?
Burton’s company RRKidz initially operated under a licensing arrangement with WNED, the public television station associated with the original program.
The relationship later became the subject of legal disputes involving licensing, intellectual property, and control of the Reading Rainbow brand.
The disputes were settled in 2017, with the settlement terms remaining confidential.
According to Current, WNED and Burton’s organization ended their licensing arrangement following the conclusion of the litigation. Current+1
This history is relevant when examining Burton’s financial journey because it shows that developing educational intellectual property can involve complicated ownership and licensing arrangements.
It also demonstrates why it is difficult to calculate his personal earnings from Reading Rainbow digital initiatives.
5. Acting, Directing and Producing Other Television Projects
Beyond his best-known roles, Burton has developed an extensive career as a television director and producer.
He has worked on different types of television productions, including drama, science fiction, family entertainment, and crime series.
His directing credits include work associated with:
- Star Trek
- JAG
- Las Vegas
- Charmed
- NCIS: New Orleans
- Miracle’s Boys
He also directed television films, including The Tiger Woods Story and Smart House.
His feature-film directorial debut came with the family film Blizzard, released in 2003. He also appeared in the production.
These projects demonstrate that Burton’s professional career has not depended exclusively on acting roles.
Directing and producing provide additional ways for experienced entertainment professionals to earn income, although his individual fees and contract terms have not been publicly disclosed. Celebrity Net Worth+1
6. LeVar Burton Entertainment: His Production Company
Burton also operates through his production company, LeVar Burton Entertainment (LBE).
The company’s mission focuses on developing stories and creative projects that promote empathy, diversity, and community.
Its activities cover several areas:
- Film and television development.
- Podcast production.
- Publishing.
- Storytelling projects.
- Educational and creative content.
The company’s official website describes storytelling as a central part of its identity and mission. levarburton.com
This business activity gives Burton an opportunity to develop projects beyond traditional acting jobs.
However, there is no publicly available financial statement showing the company’s annual revenue, operating profit, ownership valuation, or contribution to his personal net worth.
Therefore, it would be misleading to assign a specific dollar value to LeVar Burton Entertainment.
7. LeVar Burton Reads Podcast and Audio Entertainment
Another important part of Burton’s career has been podcasting.
His podcast, LeVar Burton Reads, brought his storytelling abilities to digital audio audiences.
The program featured Burton reading short fiction and introducing listeners to stories from different writers.
The podcast allowed him to build on the qualities that made Reading Rainbow successful: a distinctive voice, enthusiasm for literature, and an ability to connect with audiences through storytelling.
According to the CW’s June 2024 biography, LeVar Burton Reads had more than 175 episodes and approximately 25 million downloads at that time. Bios
These figures demonstrate the podcast’s reach, but downloads should not be confused with revenue.
Podcast income can come from sponsorships, advertising, distribution arrangements, and other commercial opportunities. Burton’s exact earnings from the program have not been publicly disclosed.
His production company has also developed Sound Detectives, a children’s podcast that the CW biography reported debuted at number one on the Kids & Family charts in 2023. Bios
8. Trivial Pursuit: LeVar Burton’s Current Television Project in 2026
One of Burton’s most important current television projects is Trivial Pursuit on The CW.
The television adaptation turns the famous trivia board game into a competitive entertainment program.
Burton serves as both host and executive producer.
The show’s format features contestants competing across trivia categories, collecting wedges, and attempting to reach the final round for a cash prize.
The CW announced on May 19, 2025, that Trivial Pursuit would return for a 30-episode second season in 2026, with Burton continuing as host and executive producer. CW Press
The series is still active in November 2026.
The CW’s official episode listings include episodes from November 2026, confirming that Burton continues to host the program.
There is also a significant longer-term development: on August 3, 2026, The CW’s parent company Nexstar announced a third-season order for Trivial Pursuit. Episodes+1
This continued television work is relevant to his financial profile because hosting and executive producing a recurring program can provide professional opportunities beyond one-time acting appearances.
However, his exact hosting salary, executive producer compensation, and total earnings from the show are not public.
9. Books, Publishing and Children’s Literature
Writing has been another important part of Burton’s professional life.
He has authored books for different audiences, including children and adult readers.
Some of his published works include:
- Aftermath (1997)
- The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm (2014), written with Susan Schaefer Bernardo
- A Kids Book About Imagination (2021)
His writing career complements his work as a television host and literacy advocate.
Burton’s involvement in children’s literature is particularly consistent with the educational mission that made Reading Rainbow successful.
His books can generate income through publishing advances, royalties, audiobook arrangements, and related licensing agreements.
However, individual book advances and royalty payments are not publicly available.
Take My Word for It: LeVar Burton’s New Memoir in November 2026
A major development in Burton’s writing career is his upcoming memoir, Take My Word for It.
The book is scheduled for publication on November 10, 2026, by Random House, one day after the date of this article.
It is written by Burton with Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggetts and is listed at 352 pages in its hardcover edition.
The publisher describes the book as a personal account of Burton’s life, covering his experiences growing up, his acting career, and the personal experiences that shaped him.
It revisits major chapters of his life, including his work in Roots, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Reading Rainbow. PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books+2
The memoir is significant because it gives readers an opportunity to understand the person behind some of television’s most recognizable characters.
It may also create new opportunities for interviews, speaking engagements, publishing activity, and promotional appearances.
However, its financial impact on Burton’s net worth cannot be calculated in advance because the details of his publishing contract and royalties have not been disclosed.
10. Brand Partnerships, Public Appearances and Speaking Engagements
Burton’s public reputation has developed through decades of work in entertainment and education.
He has been involved in literacy advocacy, educational initiatives, public speaking, and cultural events.
His professional profile has also led to partnerships connected to storytelling and education.
For example, his CW biography identifies a partnership with MasterClass, where he shares his approach to storytelling. Bios
Other potential income opportunities for established entertainers include:
- Corporate appearances.
- Conference speaking engagements.
- Educational presentations.
- Book-related events.
- Media interviews and promotional work.
- Creative collaborations.
Burton has been announced as a featured participant at the 2026 National Council of Teachers of English convention in Philadelphia, scheduled for November 19–22. NCTE Convention
He has also been announced as a featured speaker at the 2026 American Library Association Annual Conference. 2026 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition
These events demonstrate his continuing public engagement, but no specific speaking fees or partnership payments have been verified.
11. Real Estate and Personal Assets
Real estate is often considered when estimating the wealth of established Hollywood entertainers.
Celebrity Net Worth reports that Burton and his wife purchased a home in Sherman Oaks, California, in 1996 for approximately $1.475 million and listed it for sale in 2009 for approximately $1.85 million. Celebrity Net Worth
These are historical reported transaction figures, not an assessment of his current property portfolio.
A complete estimate of someone’s real estate wealth would require information about:
- Current property ownership.
- Market valuations.
- Outstanding mortgages.
- Property-related liabilities.
- Other investments and financial assets.
Burton has not publicly disclosed a complete list of his current assets.
Therefore, his property holdings should not be used to make unsupported claims about his present-day net worth.
Background: LeVar Burton’s Early Life and Journey to Hollywood
To understand Burton’s professional achievements, it is useful to look at his early life and the experiences that shaped his interest in acting and storytelling.
Early Life and Education
LeVar Burton was born on February 16, 1957, in Landstuhl, West Germany, where his father was stationed with the United States military.
He grew up in Sacramento, California, and developed an interest in education, literature, and the performing arts.
During his younger years, Burton initially considered pursuing a religious vocation before eventually deciding to study acting.
He attended the University of Southern California, where he developed his skills in theatre and performance.
His acting career began while he was still a student, and his casting in Roots in 1977 became the breakthrough that changed his professional life. Astronaut Scholarship Foundation+1
Marriage and Family
LeVar Burton married makeup artist Stephanie Cozart in 1992.
The couple have a daughter, Michaela, professionally known as Mica Burton. She has also pursued a career in entertainment and appeared alongside her father in Star Trek: Picard.
Burton has also spoken about the importance of family, education, and storytelling throughout his public career.
His family life is generally kept relatively private, and there is no verified financial disclosure establishing the combined wealth of the family.
What Officials and Organizations Have Said About LeVar Burton’s Career
Several respected institutions have documented Burton’s contributions to television, literature, and education.
National Endowment for the Humanities
The National Endowment for the Humanities recognized Burton with the National Humanities Medal in 2023.
Its profile highlights his performances in Roots and Star Trek: The Next Generation, as well as his work on Reading Rainbow.
The organization describes his contribution to storytelling and children’s literacy as an important part of his cultural legacy. National Endowment for the Humanities
Library of Congress
The Library of Congress identifies Burton as an actor, author, director, and television host.
Its biography records his work on Reading Rainbow from 1983 to 2006 and recognizes his achievements through multiple Daytime Emmy Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and a Peabody Award. The Library of Congress
The CW Network
The CW’s official biography highlights Burton’s work as an actor, director, producer, and podcaster.
The network also confirms his involvement in Trivial Pursuit as both host and executive producer. Bios+1
These sources establish his professional achievements, but none provides a verified personal net worth figure.
Why LeVar Burton’s Financial Journey Matters
Burton’s career is an interesting example of how entertainers can build long-term professional success without relying exclusively on major film productions.
His journey demonstrates several important principles.
1. A successful television role can create long-term opportunities.
His performance in Roots introduced him to audiences and helped establish his acting career.
2. Professional reinvention can extend a career.
Burton moved between acting, directing, producing, television presenting, writing, and podcasting.
3. Educational entertainment can create a lasting legacy.
His work on Reading Rainbow influenced generations of children and helped establish him as a respected advocate for literacy.
4. Intellectual property and licensing require careful management.
The legal disputes surrounding the Reading Rainbow brand demonstrate that creative projects can involve complicated ownership and licensing arrangements.
5. Cultural influence and financial wealth are different measurements.
Burton’s contribution to television and children’s education is extensively documented. His exact personal wealth, however, remains private.
His story shows that professional influence cannot always be measured through a celebrity’s estimated net worth.
What Happens Next for LeVar Burton in 2026 and Beyond?
LeVar Burton remains active in entertainment and literary projects in November 2026.
Three developments are particularly relevant.
1. Release of His New Memoir
His memoir, Take My Word for It, is scheduled to arrive on November 10, 2026.
Published by Random House, the book explores his personal experiences, professional journey, and life beyond his best-known television roles. PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books+1
2. Continued Work on Trivial Pursuit
Burton continues to host and executive produce Trivial Pursuit on The CW.
The network’s parent company announced a third-season order in August 2026, providing another opportunity for Burton to remain active in television. Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
3. Continued Education and Literacy Advocacy
Burton is also scheduled to participate in major educational and library events in November 2026.
His appearances at the National Council of Teachers of English convention and the American Library Association conference reflect his continued involvement in literacy and storytelling. NCTE Convention+1
These projects could create additional professional opportunities.
However, there is no confirmed information establishing how much they will contribute to his personal fortune.
For now, his estimated net worth remains approximately $6 million according to Celebrity Net Worth, subject to the important qualification that the amount is not independently verified.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is LeVar Burton’s net worth in 2026?
LeVar Burton’s net worth is estimated at approximately $6 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This is an unofficial estimate because Burton has not publicly confirmed his total assets and liabilities.
2. How did LeVar Burton make his money?
LeVar Burton built his wealth through acting, television hosting, directing, producing, publishing, and podcasting. His most recognized projects include Roots, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Reading Rainbow.
3. How much did LeVar Burton earn from Star Trek?
Celebrity Net Worth reports a historical salary estimate of $100,000 per episode for Star Trek: The Next Generation. However, the figure has not been independently verified through a publicly available contract or payment record.
4. Is LeVar Burton still hosting Trivial Pursuit in 2026?
Yes. LeVar Burton continues to host and executive produce Trivial Pursuit on The CW. The network has also announced a third-season order for the show in 2026.
5. How much money did LeVar Burton raise through Reading Rainbow’s Kickstarter campaign?
The 2014 Reading Rainbow-related Kickstarter campaign raised more than $5 million. The funds supported the campaign’s educational and digital reading objectives. The fundraising total should not be interpreted as Burton’s personal earnings.
6. Is LeVar Burton married?
Yes. LeVar Burton married makeup artist Stephanie Cozart in 1992. They have a daughter named Michaela, also known as Mica Burton.
7. What is LeVar Burton’s new book in 2026?
His new memoir is titled Take My Word for It. Written with Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggetts, it is scheduled for publication by Random House on November 10, 2026.
8. How old is LeVar Burton in 2026?
LeVar Burton was born on February 16, 1957. He is 69 years old as of November 9, 2026.
