Eian Burton: A Father the First 3 Years of His Life – Facts About LeVar Burton’s Son

In the world of Hollywood, personal lives often become tabloid material, but some stories offer a deeper insight into identity, responsibility, and reconciliation. One such compelling narrative is that of Eian Burton, the son of celebrated actor LeVar Burton. While LeVar became a household name through his iconic role as Kunta Kinte in Roots and as the host of Reading Rainbow, his journey into fatherhood—particularly in the early 1980s—was as dramatic and unexpected as his onscreen roles.

This article explores the fascinating real-life story of Eian Burton—his early years without knowing his father, the legal and emotional battle that followed, and how both he and LeVar have built a meaningful bond since.

Quick Bio Table: Eian Burton

Early Years: A Son Unknown

When Eian Burton was born in 1980, his father LeVar Burton had no idea he even existed. It wasn’t until 1983, after paternity tests confirmed the actor’s biological connection to Eian, that he learned the truth. LeVar’s surprise didn’t stop him from stepping up—he immediately accepted responsibility, driven by the belief that his son deserved the presence of both parents.

This act was deeply personal for LeVar. Having grown up in a single-parent household himself, he was determined not to let his son experience the same. “I grew up in a broken home, raised by my mother. I would like for my son to have the benefits of both parents,” LeVar once shared with the court.

LeVar Burton at the 2020 Breakthrough Prize Awards on November 3, 2019, in Mountain View, California. | Source: Getty Images

Legal Custody and Support

Shortly after discovering he had a son, LeVar Burton filed for joint legal custody and visitation rights in Los Angeles Superior Court. He began paying $600 a month in child support and actively sought to build a relationship with Eian.

The actor’s efforts marked a turning point in Eian’s life. At only three years old, Eian met his father for the first time and stepped into a world filled with both love and public scrutiny.

The Controversial Kidnapping Claim

Despite LeVar’s best intentions, not everything was smooth sailing. In a dramatic twist, Eian’s mother accused LeVar of kidnapping the child just a year after they had begun forming a relationship.

According to the mother, LeVar was supposed to take Eian on a two-week vacation in the Midwest. When that trip ended, she claimed she didn’t hear from either of them and suspected that LeVar had taken Eian to Africa. The media picked up the story quickly, but the actor’s agent Dolores Robinson stepped in to clarify that LeVar and Eian were safely back in the U.S., putting an end to the controversy.

Educational and Professional Life

Unlike many celebrity children who choose fame, Eian Burton carved a humble and impactful path. He studied Education at Foothill College and has committed his life to teaching and mentoring. Currently, he serves as:

• Community-Based Instructor at Santa Clara County Office of Education

• Special Education staff at Monroe Middle School

• Basketball Coach influencing youth in sports and life skills

His dedication to education and community engagement reflects the values instilled in him by his father, who has long championed literacy and children’s learning through “Reading Rainbow.”

Family Ties: Mica Burton and Shared Values

Eian shares a special bond with his half-sister Mica Burton, LeVar’s daughter from his marriage to Stephanie Cozart Burton. Mica is an actress and voice talent known for her work in Rooster Teeth and Critical Role.

Though they chose different professional paths, both siblings exhibit a deep admiration for their father. Mica once shared a touching Father’s Day tribute on Instagram, writing:

“Not many dads can rock traditional Japanese clothes this hard […]. I’m so lucky mine is one of those dads. Happy Father’s Day, @levar.burton!”

The Burton children, though from different maternal backgrounds, have embraced one another and their father’s legacy with unity and love.

Overcoming Public Assumptions

Being the son of a high-profile figure like LeVar Burton inevitably comes with expectations. But Eian Burton has chosen to rise above those assumptions, creating a meaningful life grounded in service and mentorship.

He’s remained largely out of the public eye, only sharing snippets of his life on social media. This privacy has enabled him to define himself independently, rather than riding the coattails of his father’s fame.

Private But Purposeful

From teaching special education students to coaching sports teams, Eian demonstrates a passion for supporting young people, particularly those with additional challenges. This speaks volumes about his character, shaped by both personal experience and learned empathy.

His work at Monroe Middle School and the Santa Clara County Office of Education impacts lives daily, a contribution that may never make headlines but leaves a lasting mark on the community.

Reflections on Fatherhood and Legacy

Though his journey to fatherhood began unexpectedly, LeVar Burton embraced the role with heartfelt commitment. And Eian, through education and community engagement, continues that legacy—one centered around responsibility, family values, and creating positive change.

Their story is not only one of reconciliation and growth, but also a modern testament to what it means to break cycles and show up, even when the path begins unconventionally.

Eian Burton Today

Living in California, Eian Burton maintains a peaceful lifestyle, rooted in teaching and helping others. He has not married, based on public records, and continues to invest in the youth of his community.

Through every chapter—from courtrooms to classrooms—Eian represents the strength of second chances and the legacy of a father who chose to show up.

(FAQs)

1. Who is Eian Burton?
Eian Burton is the son of actor LeVar Burton, known for his work in education and coaching in California.

2. How did LeVar Burton find out about Eian?
In 1983, LeVar was informed of his paternity through a court-ordered paternity test and soon sought custody rights.

3. What does Eian Burton do for a living?
He works in special education at Monroe Middle School and serves as a basketball coach and instructor.

4. Who is Eian Burton’s half-sister?
His half-sister is Mica Burton, an actress and cosplayer with a growing presence in the entertainment world.

5. Did LeVar Burton face legal challenges with Eian’s custody?
Yes, there was a high-profile accusation of kidnapping by Eian’s mother, but it was resolved without charges.