Who Is Eian Burton? Everything You Didn’t Know About LeVar Burton’s Son

You probably know LeVar Burton, the famous actor from Roots, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and the much-loved kids’ show Reading Rainbow. He’s a big name in Hollywood. But not many people know that he has a son named Eian Burton.

Eian didn’t grow up in the spotlight. He didn’t follow his dad into acting or fame. Instead, he chose a quiet life where he helps others — especially kids. In this article, we’re going to talk about who Eian Burton really is, what his early life was like, and how he became the person he is today. Get ready for a true story full of surprise, heart, and purpose.

Eian Burton Quick Bio

Who Is Eian Burton?

Eian Burton is the only son of LeVar Burton, born in 1980 in Los Angeles, California. His full name is Eian Burton Smith. As of 2025, he is 45 years old. Even though his dad is famous, Eian has stayed away from the spotlight for most of his life.

Today, Eian works as a special education teacher and a basketball coach. He lives in Campbell, California, and enjoys a quiet, peaceful life. While his name might not be on TV, he’s making a real difference every day — just in a different way than his father.

How LeVar Burton Found Out He Had a Son

Here’s something many people don’t know: LeVar Burton didn’t even know he had a son until Eian was three years old. That’s right. In 1983, a paternity test confirmed that LeVar was Eian’s biological father.

It was a big surprise. Eian’s mom, Chimara P. Smith, had not told LeVar about the baby after their short relationship. They were not a couple, and Eian was born after a one-time encounter. But once LeVar found out, he took full responsibility. He didn’t run or hide. Instead, he stepped up like a true father.

He said something very honest at the time:

“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 about being a dad. It wasn’t about fame. It was about family.

Why Eian Burton Was Raised Without His Dad at First

Before LeVar knew about Eian, Eian was being raised only by his mother. His early years were spent without knowing who his father was. That can be a hard start for any child.

Eian’s mother and LeVar didn’t have a deep relationship. Their time together was short, and they didn’t stay in contact. Because of that, LeVar had no idea that he had a son until the district attorney reached out and told him. Imagine being a young father and suddenly hearing that you have a three-year-old child you’ve never met. That’s exactly what happened.

But once he knew, LeVar acted fast. He wanted to be there for his son. Not just with money, but with time and love too.

The Legal Case and LeVar’s Custody Battle

After the DNA test, LeVar Burton filed for joint custody of Eian. He also started paying $600 a month in child support, which was a large amount back in the early 1980s.

But for LeVar, it wasn’t about the money. He wanted to make sure his son had both parents in his life. He believed that children grow better when they have the love and support of both a mom and a dad. That’s why he didn’t just agree to help — he went to court to make sure he could be involved in Eian’s life legally and emotionally.

This story made headlines at the time. People were surprised to see a rising Hollywood star showing so much care and action for a child he didn’t even know existed a few months earlier. But for LeVar, it was the right thing to do.

When Eian’s Mom Accused LeVar of Kidnapping

Just when things seemed to be settling down, another dramatic moment came in 1984. Eian’s mother suddenly accused LeVar of kidnapping their son.

Here’s what happened: Eian had gone on a two-week vacation with LeVar. The plan was to return him afterward. But when that time passed and Eian wasn’t back, his mom believed that LeVar had taken the boy to Africa without permission.

The news spread quickly. People were shocked. Was this a real kidnapping?

Later, it was all cleared up. LeVar’s agent explained that Eian was safe with his grandmother in Sacramento, California. LeVar had flown to Africa on a short work trip, and everything was fine. No one was in danger. But the misunderstanding brought a lot of public attention — and stress — to the family.

Eian Burton’s Relationship with His Famous Father

After all the legal issues and media drama, LeVar and Eian started to build a bond. It wasn’t always easy. They didn’t live together full-time. But they kept in contact, and LeVar did his best to be present in Eian’s life.

What’s special is that Eian didn’t grow up living like a celebrity kid. He wasn’t walking red carpets or hanging out on film sets. Instead, he lived a much more normal life. But he still knew that his father was someone special — not just because of fame, but because LeVar showed up when it mattered most.

Their relationship was private and real — not built for show, but for family.

Meet His Half-Sister, Mica Burton

Eian also has a half-sister named Mica Burton. She’s the daughter of LeVar and his wife, Stephanie Cozart Burton, who married in 1992. Unlike Eian, Mica is very active in the public eye.

Mica is an actress, cosplayer, and host. She’s known for her work in video game events, sci-fi shows, and cosplay conventions. She has even appeared on Star Trek: Picard, just like her dad once did in Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Even though Eian and Mica have different lifestyles, they share love and respect for their dad. On Father’s Day, Mica once posted a sweet photo of LeVar in traditional Japanese clothing, saying how proud she was to have him as a father. That kind of family bond says a lot.

Eian’s Education and College Life

After growing up away from the spotlight, Eian Burton focused on his education. He went to Los Altos High School in California. Like many teens, he spent his high school years figuring out who he wanted to be.

Later, he studied Education at Foothill College, a community college known for its strong academic programs. It was here that Eian decided he wanted to work in schools and help children. Unlike his father, who became famous through acting, Eian felt called to make a difference in the classroom.

His choice shows a lot about who he is. While some children of celebrities might chase fame, Eian chose a path that put kids and learning first.

Eian Burton’s Career as a Teacher

Today, Eian Burton works as a special education teacher in San Jose, California. He teaches at Monroe Middle School, where he helps students who need extra support. These students might struggle with learning, focus, or emotional challenges.

Working in special education takes patience, kindness, and a big heart. Eian gives his students a safe space to grow. He teaches more than just lessons — he teaches confidence, hope, and how to keep going even when life feels hard.

He also works as a Community-Based Instructor at the Santa Clara County Office of Education. This means he helps students not just in school, but also in real-life situations. His goal is to make sure every child gets the tools they need to succeed.

But Eian doesn’t stop in the classroom. He also coaches youth basketball. He works with a group called Top Flight Elite, which helps young athletes learn the game.

As a coach, Eian teaches more than just how to shoot a basketball. He teaches teamwork, discipline, and confidence. Many kids look up to him, not just as a coach, but as a role model.

Imagine being a kid who struggles in school but finds joy on the basketball court. That’s where Eian comes in. He supports them both inside and outside the classroom. That’s what makes his role so special.

What Eian Burton’s Life Looks Like Today

In 2025, Eian Burton is living a peaceful and private life. He’s 45 years old and lives in Campbell, California, not far from where he grew up.

He is single and keeps a low profile. You won’t find him on TV or in magazines. Instead, he shares little moments with friends on Facebook or Instagram (@eianwardburton), where he has a small group of followers.

Eian has built a simple life — but it’s full of purpose. While his dad, LeVar Burton, is still loved around the world, Eian continues to make quiet, powerful changes in the lives of young people every day.

Why Eian Burton’s Story Matters

Eian Burton may not be famous, but his story is full of strength. He started life with uncertainty — no father at first, public drama later. But he turned all that into something good.

Instead of chasing the spotlight, he chose a path of helping others. He teaches, coaches, and leads by example. His work might not be on the news, but it touches real lives. That’s what matters.

Sometimes, the best stories aren’t about fame. They’re about the heart. And Eian Burton’s story is one of those. He reminds us that living with kindness, honesty, and purpose is more powerful than any red carpet or TV show.

Final Thoughts

Now you know the full story of Eian Burton — the son of a Hollywood legend who took his own path. He didn’t become an actor. He didn’t chase attention. But he became something just as meaningful.

Eian is a teacher, a coach, a mentor, and a quiet hero to many. He shows us that life doesn’t have to be loud to be important. And sometimes, the strongest people are the ones who choose to serve others instead of seeking the spotlight.

Whether you knew his name before or not, Eian Burton is someone worth knowing.

(FAQs)

Who is Eian Burton’s mother?

Eian’s mother is Chimara P. Smith, who raised him alone for the first 3 years of his life. LeVar Burton had no idea Eian existed until a paternity test confirmed it in 1983.

How old is Eian Burton and when was he born?

Eian Burton was born in 1980, which makes him 45 years old in 2025 — and many fans never even knew LeVar Burton had a son that old!

What is Eian Burton’s net worth, and how does he earn money?

While his net worth is not public, Eian earns from his work as a special education teacher and youth basketball coach — not from Hollywood like his famous dad.

Is Eian Burton married or does he have a wife?

No, Eian Burton is currently single and has kept his personal life very private. He has no known wife or partner as of 2025.

What is Eian Burton doing today?

In 2025, Eian lives in Campbell, California, working as a teacher and coach, quietly changing lives while staying far from the fame his father is known for.