**LeVar Burton Reflects on Career and Ancestry in New Memoir**
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LeVar Burton, the celebrated actor known for his iconic roles, has recently released his memoir titled *Take My Word for It*. In a candid interview, the 69-year-old reflected on the profound impact of his role as Kunta Kinte in the celebrated 1977 miniseries *Roots*, a portrayal that not only shaped his career but also deepened his connection to his own ancestry.
Burton, a student at the University of Southern California at the age of 19, embarked on his professional acting career by auditioning for the groundbreaking miniseries, which is based on Alex Haley’s 1976 novel. The story chronicles the journey of an African-American family across generations, tracing their roots from West Africa through the harrowing experiences of slavery to eventual emancipation in the United States.
In his discussion with *PEOPLE*, Burton reminisced about the excitement of landing the role of Kunta Kinte, noting the complexity of transitioning from theatre to television. “It was thrilling to work with a professional casting director, though it felt foreign since it was for a television show,” he explained. His familiarity with Haley’s work, having previously studied *The Autobiography of Malcolm X*, gave Burton a sense of connection to his new project, transforming it into an experience of “absolute rightness.”
The portrayal of Kunta Kinte triggered something deeper within Burton, inspiring him to delve into his own heritage. He remarked, “Roots highlighted the necessity to connect with my ancestors. This relationship has become an integral part of my identity.” This exploration of family lineage has allowed him to forge a meaningful bond with his roots, shaping his understanding of self.
*Roots* became a monumental work, winning nine Primetime Emmys and a Golden Globe Award, whilst generating crucial conversations surrounding race in America. However, Burton expressed concern about the current climate, suggesting that a show like *Roots* might struggle to find a platform today. “America is afraid of its past,” he asserted. He lamented the apprehension that Americans may find uncomfortable truths about their history, stating, “Everyone sees it, but us.”
Burton underscored the significance of his relationship with his ancestors, asserting that understanding one’s heritage is crucial to personal identity. He encouraged others to embark on similar inquiries, suggesting there is much to gain from exploring one’s lineage and the experiences of those who came before.
The memoir, which details not only his time on *Roots* but also his influential roles in *Reading Rainbow* and *Star Trek: The Next Generation*, serves as a reflection of his life’s milestones. Describing the book as “a statement of my beingness,” Burton has crafted it to encapsulate the lessons learned throughout his experiences in both acting and life itself.
He expressed his belief in recognising pivotal moments or “lamp posts” throughout his journey, which has helped guide his path in the industry. Burton’s insights aim to inspire readers not only to appreciate their own journeys but to consider the rich histories behind them.
*Take My Word for It* is currently available for purchase at booksellers nationwide, offering readers a glimpse into the man behind the roles and a chance to reflect on the broader narratives of identity, heritage, and connection that resonate within us all.
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