Meet Eian Burton: LeVar Burton’s Son Who Chose a Life Away from Fame

Most people know LeVar Burton. He is the star from Roots, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and the much-loved kids’ show Reading Rainbow. His face and voice are famous around the world.

But not many people know about his son, Eian Burton. Unlike his dad, Eian has chosen a very different path. He does not live in the spotlight. He is not on TV or at red-carpet events. Instead, he works quietly to help children learn and grow.

In this article, we will explore Eian Burton’s story. You will find out about his childhood, how his father discovered him, the early challenges, and how he became the person he is today. It’s a story of love, surprises, and choosing a life of purpose over fame.

Eian Burton Quick Bio

Who Is Eian Burton?

Eian Burton is the only son of LeVar Burton. He was born in 1980 in Los Angeles, California. His full name is Eian Burton Smith, but most people know him as Eian Burton.

Even though his father is a Hollywood legend, Eian lives a very private and simple life. He works as a special education teacher and a basketball coach, helping children who need extra support in school and sports. He lives in Campbell, California, where he keeps a low profile and focuses on his work.

This choice of a quiet life is what makes Eian stand out. He didn’t follow his father into acting or fame. He chose his own path — one built on teaching, guiding, and inspiring kids.

Eian Burton’s Early Life Without His Father

Eian Burton’s early years were very different from what people might expect for the son of a famous actor. When he was born, his father didn’t even know he existed. His mother, Chimara P. Smith, raised him alone for the first three years.

During those years, Eian grew up without a father figure. His mom took care of everything. There were no movie sets or celebrity events — just a normal life with a single parent. It was a quiet beginning, far from Hollywood lights.

This start shaped who Eian became. Growing up with only his mom taught him about strength, patience, and independence. It also set the stage for the big surprise that would come later — when LeVar Burton learned he had a son.

When LeVar Burton Found Out He Had a Son

In 1983, everything changed. A paternity test confirmed that LeVar Burton was Eian’s father. Until then, LeVar had no idea that he had a child. It was a shock — but also a turning point.

LeVar did not run away from the news. He stepped up. Right away, he asked the Los Angeles Superior Court for joint legal custody and visitation rights. He also started paying $600 a month in child support — a big sum in the 1980s.

LeVar explained his reason very clearly at the time. He said, “I grew up in a broken home, raised by my mother. I would like for my son to have the benefits of both parents.” That one sentence showed how serious he was. He wanted to be there for Eian, not just with money, but with time, care, and love.

The Custody Battle and Support Payments

The story of Eian Burton and his father made headlines back then. People were surprised to see a rising Hollywood star fighting for the chance to be in his son’s life. It wasn’t common for actors to be so open and responsible about fatherhood in the public eye.

LeVar Burton wasn’t only paying child support. He was also working hard to build a relationship with Eian. He wanted to share holidays, school events, and everyday life — all the small things that help a father and son bond.

This early legal process was not easy. It involved court hearings and public attention. But it was an important step in making sure Eian grew up with the support of both his parents. It showed that LeVar wanted more than just to “do the right thing.” He wanted to actually be a dad.

The Shocking Kidnapping Accusation

Just as things were starting to settle, another dramatic moment arrived. In 1984, Eian’s mother accused LeVar Burton of kidnapping their son. The story spread quickly and shocked many people.

Here’s what happened. Eian had gone on a two-week vacation with his dad. He was supposed to return to his mother afterward. But when the time passed and she hadn’t heard from them, she believed LeVar had taken Eian to Africa without permission.

The truth was much calmer. LeVar’s agent explained that Eian was safe with his grandmother in Sacramento, California. LeVar had gone on a short work trip to Africa, but everything was fine. No one was in danger. But the misunderstanding put a lot of stress on the family and brought even more public attention to their lives.

Eian Burton’s Relationship with His Dad

After the early struggles and public attention, Eian Burton and his father started to build a real relationship. It wasn’t always easy, especially after the court cases and media drama. But with time, they found a way to connect.

LeVar didn’t just want to be a “weekend dad.” He wanted to be present. So, even though Eian didn’t live with him full-time, they stayed in touch and spent time together. Slowly, trust was built, and their bond grew stronger.

What makes this story special is that their connection was private. There were no cameras or fame involved — just a father and son learning how to be in each other’s lives. That’s something truly valuable.

Eian Burton’s Half-Sister Mica and Family Life

Later on, LeVar Burton married Stephanie Cozart Burton in 1992. They had a daughter together, named Mica Burton. She is Eian’s half-sister.

Mica followed in her father’s footsteps. She became an actress, a cosplayer, and a host for video game and sci-fi events. She’s very active on social media and sometimes posts sweet pictures of her dad.

Even though Eian and Mica have very different lives, they both care about their father. In one Instagram post, Mica shared a photo of LeVar in traditional Japanese clothes and called him the best dad ever. It showed how much love this blended family shares, even with different paths in life.

Eian Burton’s Education Journey

As Eian got older, he focused on school and his future. He went to Los Altos High School in California. Like many kids, he spent those years finding out who he wanted to become.

Instead of choosing fame or the entertainment world, Eian decided to help others. He went to Foothill College and studied Education. He wanted to work with children and make a difference in their lives.

That decision says a lot about who Eian is. He didn’t want to be in the spotlight. He wanted to be in the classroom — helping kids grow, learn, and feel supported.

Eian Burton’s Career as a Special Education Teacher

Today, Eian Burton works as a special education teacher in San Jose, California. He teaches at Monroe Middle School, where he supports students with learning or emotional needs.

Being a special ed teacher takes a big heart. It’s not an easy job, but Eian has the patience and kindness needed to do it well. He helps kids who struggle with school, giving them confidence and showing them that they can succeed.

He doesn’t just teach facts. He teaches hope. And for many of his students, Eian Burton becomes more than a teacher — he becomes someone they can trust and look up to.

How Eian Burton Helps Outside the Classroom

Eian’s work doesn’t stop when the school bell rings. He is also a Community-Based Instructor for the Santa Clara County Office of Education. That means he helps students outside the classroom too.

Some kids need extra support to handle real-life situations. Eian works with them in the community — helping with social skills, job skills, and building confidence in everyday life.

His goal is simple: to help every child feel seen, supported, and ready for the future. That kind of work doesn’t make headlines, but it changes lives quietly every day.

Eian Burton, the Coach and Mentor

Besides teaching, Eian Burton is also a basketball coach. He works with a group called Top Flight Elite, which trains young athletes and helps them grow through sports.

As a coach, Eian teaches more than just how to play. He teaches kids how to work as a team, how to handle wins and losses, and how to believe in themselves.

For many young players, Coach Eian is someone they look up to. He’s not just telling them what to do — he’s showing them how to lead with heart, respect, and effort.

Eian Burton’s Life Today in 2025

In 2025, Eian Burton is 45 years old and lives in Campbell, California. He still works in education and coaching. His life is calm, steady, and full of purpose.

He is single and keeps his personal life very private. He doesn’t chase attention or fame. You might find him posting now and then on Facebook or Instagram (@eianwardburton), but he doesn’t share too much.

Instead of living in the spotlight, Eian lives a quiet life — one built on helping others, not being seen. And for him, that’s more than enough.

What We Can Learn from Eian Burton’s Story

There’s something very powerful about Eian Burton’s story. He didn’t grow up with fame. His early life had challenges. But he turned those moments into strength.

Instead of following the path of his famous father, Eian made his own way — and it’s a path that helps kids, families, and his community. That’s a different kind of success.

He shows us that you don’t have to be on TV to make a big impact. You just need a kind heart, a strong purpose, and the courage to do what feels right.

Final Thoughts

Now you’ve met Eian Burton, a man who proves that quiet lives can be powerful too. While his dad, LeVar Burton, is a name known all over the world, Eian is doing something just as important — one child, one classroom, and one basketball court at a time.

His story is not about fame. It’s about family, growth, and doing good in the world. And that’s the kind of story worth remembering.