LeVar Burton Reflects On Reading Rainbow’s Legacy In ‘Butterfly in the Sky’ Documentary: Exclusive Interview

LeVar Burton looks back at the iconic show Reading Rainbow.

Few names in the world of children’s television resonate as profoundly as LeVar Burton and his iconic PBS series, Reading Rainbow. A new documentary, Butterfly in the Sky, is now available on Digital and delves into the history and impact of this beloved show. It shines a light on how it has cultivated a love of reading through the captivating medium of television. The opening strains of the show’s theme song are a nostalgic time machine. It whisks anyone who grew up in the ’80s or ’90s back to a world of wonder and exploration. Reading Rainbow wasn’t just a television program. It was a magical portal to the world of books for countless young viewers. At its core was the unique blend of gentleness and authority in LeVar Burton’s presence, a genuine love for literature that radiated from every episode.

Burton’s approach was revolutionary.

He believed in empowering kids to share their favorite stories, making the literary experience relatable and exciting. His warmth and authenticity became synonymous with the show. That earned him a special place in the hearts of children and parents alike. Beyond his role as host, Burton’s personal journey was intricately woven into the fabric of Reading Rainbow. His steadfast commitment to educational television was unyielding, from the early controversies over his signature earring and mustache to his later role as an executive producer. This was a testament to his unwavering dedication and belief in the show’s mission.

Prior to the documentary’s release on Digital platforms, I had the privilege of chatting with LeVar Burton for an exclusive interview. We delved into the making of Reading Rainbow, discussing the challenges and triumphs of bringing literature to life on the small screen. This interview is filled with laughter and poignant memories. Watch it below!

LeVar Burton’s impact extends far beyond Reading Rainbow. His work on Roots and Star Trek: The Next Generation solidified him as a cultural icon. Even today, his podcast LeVar Burton Reads inspires a new generation of readers as it wraps up 13 strong sessions. Butterfly in the Sky is not just another documentary. It is a heartfelt celebration of the legacy of Reading Rainbow and the enduring spirit of LeVar Burton, whose passion for literacy has left an indelible mark on generations of young minds.

Directors Bradford Thomason & Brett Whitcomb said the following:

“The film was really born from feeling like a show we loved growing up wasn’t getting enough attention. Many people remembered the show, LeVar, and the theme song… but there was very little out there about the people behind the show and their incredible passion.  It was intimidating reaching out to LeVar for sure – he was a childhood hero of ours, afterall – but once he heard the pitch and got a sense of our perspective, he got on board pretty quickly. We want audiences to take the same things from the film that we took from the show – a love of reading and encouragement to explore the world through books. But we also want to shine a light on those behind the show and highlight their passion.”

Verdict/Rating

The documentary is really special. It combines interviews, behind-the-scenes clips, and fan stories to vividly depict the show’s influence. Watching this documentary brings back memories of the show, reminding us of the importance of storytelling and how TV can spark a passion for reading. It was like stepping back into a time I hadn’t fully appreciated. Revisiting the 90s through this documentary filled me with nostalgia—I couldn’t help but smile, laugh, and even shed a tear. Watch Butterfly in the Sky on Prime Video.

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