AssetID: 53129059
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: LeVar Burton to host National Book Awards
Caption: LeVar Burton to Host National Book Awards. NPR reports that LeVar Burton will replace Drew Barrymore as the host of the 2023 National Book Awards. "It's an honor to return as host of the biggest night for books, especially in a moment when the freedom to read is at risk." LeVar Burton, via NPR. The actor and podcaster, who has long been an advocate for reading, hosted the ceremony in 2019 as well. Originally, Drew Barrymore was scheduled to host the 2023 show, but the offer was rescinded after she said she would bring back her talk show amid ongoing strikes. "The National Book Awards is an evening dedicated to celebrating the power of literature, and the incomparable contributions of writers to our culture.” "Our commitment is to ensure that the focus of the Awards remains on celebrating writers and books, and we are grateful to Ms. Barrymore and her team for their understanding in this situation." National Book Foundation statement, via NPR. Burton is best known for his 'Star Trek' role as Geordi La Forge in addition to hosting 'Reading Rainbow' on PBS. In 1977, Burton had his breakout role playing Kunta Kinte in the television adaptation of 'Roots,' based on Alex Haley's 1976 novel. Currently, Burton hosts the 'LeVar Burton Reads' podcast, reading short fiction by different authors. Earlier this month, the National Book Awards announced the finalists for this year, with the winners to be revealed at the ceremony held on November 15. THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT
Keywords: LeVar Burton,National Book Awards,Host,Replace,Drew Barrymore,Honor,Return,Podcaster,Actor,Ceremony,Books,Advocate,Strikes,Show,Scheduled
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