LeVar Burton was 19 years old when he played the iconic role of Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking television series Roots.
LeVar Burton's Breakthrough Role
LeVar Burton launched his acting career while still a student at the University of Southern California. His casting as Kunta Kinte in the landmark 1977 miniseries Roots was a pivotal moment not only for his career but also for television history.
This role brought him significant recognition, including being featured on the cover of Time magazine at just 19 years old. His performance as the resilient young African man captured and enslaved was widely acclaimed and deeply impacted audiences worldwide.
Quick Facts About the Role:
- Actor: LeVar Burton
- Role: Kunta Kinte
- Age at Time of Airing/Filming: 19 years old
- Series: Roots (1977)
- Impact: Launched his career, garnered critical acclaim, and led to a Time magazine cover.
The series itself was a cultural phenomenon, drawing immense viewership and sparking widespread conversations about slavery and American history. Burton's portrayal of Kunta Kinte, from his youth in Gambia to his arduous journey and life in America, remains one of his most memorable and impactful performances.
