September 30, 2025
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For decades, Reading Rainbow has been a beloved part of children’s television. This iconic PBS show taught millions of kids to love books, imagination, and learning. After nearly 20 years off-air, it is returning with a new host, fresh episodes, and celebrity guests. The revival aims to continue the mission of inspiring literacy in young audiences. With its new digital platform debut on KidZuko, the series brings a modern twist to the classic format. Parents and teachers alike are excited for the return, while a new generation of kids will get to experience the magic of reading through storytelling and exploration.
The History of Reading Rainbow
Reading Rainbow first premiered in 1983, produced by Buffalo Toronto Public Media (BTPM) in Buffalo, New York. Its mission was simple but powerful: encourage children to read and explore books during their formative years.
The original host, LeVar Burton, guided kids through imaginative worlds using calm, engaging storytelling. Burton’s presence made the show approachable and fun, while the selection of books introduced kids to diverse cultures, ideas, and experiences.
Key Achievements:
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26 Emmy Awards
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George Foster Peabody Award
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Weekly viewership of 670,000, and 10 million students engaged at schools
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Over half a million copies of episodes sold since 1995
The show ran for more than two decades, ending its initial run in 2006. Over that time, it became a cornerstone of children’s education, with teachers and parents praising its influence on literacy and imagination.
Why It Was So Popular
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Interactive Storytelling: Episodes often included animated segments and live readings.
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Cultural Exposure: Children learned about different communities, traditions, and stories.
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Encouraged Reading: The show’s motto, “I can go anywhere I want,” highlighted the power of books to expand imagination.
Despite the end of its run, Reading Rainbow remained a cultural touchstone, influencing apps, educational programs, and public library initiatives.
The New Era: Reading Rainbow Returns
In 2025, Reading Rainbow announced its return with a new host, Mychal Threets, also known as Mychal the Librarian. Threets rose to fame on TikTok and Instagram for his love of libraries and creative approaches to literacy.
The new iteration of the show is a digital series debuting on Sony’s KidZuko platform, aimed at children with short, engaging episodes. Celebrity guests such as Chrissy Teigen, Gabrielle Union, John Legend, and Adam Devine will read books, encouraging young audiences to explore literature in fun ways.
Features of the New Series
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Weekly Saturday episodes starting October 4 and continuing through October 25
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Short-form episodes designed for modern attention spans
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Celebrity readings to inspire children
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Emphasis on literacy, diversity, and imagination
For example, one episode features Ebon Moss-Bachrach reading a children’s book about friendship, while another includes dancing stars Rylee Arnold and Ezra Sosa performing interactive storytelling. This blend of entertainment and education aims to make reading exciting for kids today.
The Importance of Reading Rainbow for Literacy
Reading Rainbow is not just a TV show; it is a literacy movement. Studies have shown that children who are exposed to books and reading programs are more likely to succeed academically and develop stronger communication skills.
Benefits of Shows Like Reading Rainbow:
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Encourages regular reading habits
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Enhances vocabulary and comprehension skills
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Builds empathy and cultural understanding
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Mitigates summer learning loss
For teachers, the show is a valuable tool. Many schools incorporated episodes into classroom activities, combining watching with book discussions and creative projects. Even in today’s digital age, programs like Reading Rainbow serve as bridges between learning and entertainment.
Modern Adaptations and Digital Platforms
The original show aired on PBS, but the revival adapts to the digital age. KidZuko, a kids-focused YouTube channel operated by Sony Pictures Television, offers easy access to the new episodes. This transition reflects changes in how children consume content, prioritizing streaming and mobile-friendly formats.
Why Digital Platforms Matter:
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Accessibility: Children can watch anywhere, anytime
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Interactivity: Videos can be paused, replayed, and shared
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Engagement: Incorporates social media and celebrity involvement
Moreover, the show continues its legacy of using educational content creatively. Each episode encourages children to engage with books both on-screen and offline, supporting literacy in multiple ways.
Celebrity Influence and Engagement
Celebrity guests are not just for fun—they help inspire kids. Seeing admired figures read and enjoy books encourages children to do the same.
Notable Guests:
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John Legend: Sings and reads stories about music and creativity
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Chrissy Teigen: Shares humorous and relatable stories
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Gabrielle Union: Focuses on books about courage and perseverance
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Adam Devine: Reads stories that highlight teamwork and friendship
This strategy connects children to reading through role models they recognize and admire. In fact, research suggests celebrity endorsements can significantly increase engagement and interest in educational content.
The Legacy of LeVar Burton
It’s impossible to discuss Reading Rainbow without mentioning LeVar Burton. His calm voice, passion for storytelling, and genuine encouragement made him a trusted guide for millions of children. Burton’s approach combined entertainment and education seamlessly, teaching kids that reading is both fun and rewarding.
Even though he is not hosting the new series, his influence is visible. The format, educational mission, and celebratory approach to books all echo the original vision. Many fans credit Burton for instilling a lifelong love of reading that persists in adults today.
Fun Facts About Reading Rainbow
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The show’s famous theme song, “Butterfly in the Sky,” was iconic and remembered by generations
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Episodes were designed to help prevent summer learning loss
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Over 10 million students watched the show at school during its original run
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The Reading Rainbow app was launched in 2012 to adapt the program to digital formats
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Many educators and parents cite it as a key tool in motivating reluctant readers
These facts illustrate the widespread cultural and educational impact of Reading Rainbow over the years.
Tips for Parents to Encourage Reading
Even with a show like Reading Rainbow, parents play a crucial role in fostering literacy. Here are practical steps:
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Read Together: Spend 15–30 minutes reading with your child daily
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Discuss Stories: Ask questions about characters, plot, and feelings
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Visit Libraries: Explore different books and genres regularly
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Integrate Technology: Use apps or digital series like Reading Rainbow to supplement reading
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Make It Fun: Encourage creativity, such as acting out stories or drawing scenes
These simple strategies reinforce lessons from the show and make reading a regular, enjoyable habit.
How Teachers Can Use Reading Rainbow
Teachers can integrate Reading Rainbow into their classrooms to enhance literacy:
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Classroom Viewings: Show episodes and discuss the story afterward
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Project-Based Learning: Assign activities related to the books featured
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Book Clubs: Organize small groups to read and discuss books together
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Cross-Curricular Learning: Use stories to teach science, history, and social skills
This approach transforms passive watching into active learning, maximizing the educational value of the show.
Challenges and Criticisms
While widely loved, Reading Rainbow has faced challenges:
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Funding: Federal cuts to public broadcasting affected its original production
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Accessibility: Digital platforms are not accessible to all children equally
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Engagement: Competing with video games and other entertainment can be difficult
Despite these challenges, the revival aims to adapt, using short-form digital content, celebrity involvement, and interactive elements to attract today’s audience.
FAQs About Reading Rainbow
Q1: When did Reading Rainbow first air?
Reading Rainbow premiered in 1983 and ran until 2006. It became one of PBS’s most-watched programs, inspiring millions of children to develop a love for reading.
Q2: Who is the new host of Reading Rainbow?
The new host is Mychal Threets, a librarian and digital creator known for promoting literacy on TikTok and Instagram. He continues the show’s mission in a modern, digital format.
Q3: Where can I watch the new episodes?
The new series airs on KidZuko, a YouTube channel for kids operated by Sony Pictures Television. Episodes are available weekly, with celebrity readings and short-form content to engage children.
Conclusion
The return of Reading Rainbow marks a new chapter in children’s literacy and entertainment. With Mychal Threets as the host, celebrity guests, and a digital-first approach, the show continues its mission to inspire reading and imagination. Parents, teachers, and kids alike can benefit from its innovative, fun, and educational content. As it returns to screens, Reading Rainbow proves that the joy of books and storytelling never fades—it simply evolves.
