Reading Rainbow Returns To The Airwaves After 20 Years

“Butterfly in the sky, I can go twice as high…” For multiple generations, that simple melody evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia, transporting them back to a time of discovery, imagination, and the pure joy of reading. After being off the air for nearly two decades, the iconic and beloved children’s program Reading Rainbow is officially making its long-awaited comeback, ready to inspire a new generation of young readers.

This article explores the exciting news that Reading Rainbow returns after 20 years, detailing its profound cultural significance, introducing the passionate new host, Mychal Threets, and highlighting the star-studded lineup of guests who are joining the mission to celebrate the magic of books.

Reading Rainbow Returns!

Before diving into the new iteration, it’s essential to understand why the return of Reading Rainbow is such a significant cultural moment. First airing on PBS in 1983, the original series, hosted by the legendary LeVar Burton, was more than just a television show; it was a movement. For 26 seasons, Burton took children on adventures through the pages of books, making literature accessible, exciting, and cool.

The show’s formula was simple yet revolutionary. Each episode centered on a children’s book, often narrated by a celebrity guest, followed by segments that connected the book’s themes to the real world. Whether exploring a volcano, visiting a museum, or learning about different cultures, Burton and the show’s producers demonstrated that books were not just stories—they were gateways to understanding the world around us. “But you don’t have to take my word for it,” was Burton’s signature sign-off, encouraging kids to read the book themselves and form their own opinions.

During its remarkable run, Reading Rainbow won over 200 broadcast awards, including an incredible 26 Emmy Awards. More importantly, it became the most-watched PBS program in classrooms across the country, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of childhood literacy education. LeVar Burton became a symbol of literacy itself, a role he embraced with profound grace. His passion and genuine love for reading were infectious, inspiring millions of children to pick up a book. The show’s departure from the airwaves left a void that has been felt ever since.

Passing the Torch: Meet the New Host, Mychal Threets

Filling the shoes of a television icon like LeVar Burton is no easy task, but the new Reading Rainbow has found the perfect successor in Mychal Threets. A viral sensation in his own right, Threets has captured the hearts of millions with his joyful and enthusiastic promotion of children’s literacy on his TikTok account, @mychal3ts, where he is known as “Mychal the Librarian.”

Threets’ infectious positivity, colorful hair, and genuine passion for connecting kids with books have made him a modern-day champion for libraries and reading. He currently serves as the resident librarian for PBS Kids, making him a natural fit to take the helm of this beloved franchise. His approach to literacy is rooted in kindness, encouragement, and making every child feel seen and welcome in the world of books. He embodies the same spirit of warmth and authenticity that made LeVar Burton such a trusted guide for generations of viewers.

The announcement of his new role was met with overwhelming support, as fans of both the original show and Threets’ own work recognized the perfect synergy. He represents a bridge between the show’s nostalgic past and its digital future, ready to introduce the magic of Reading Rainbow to a new generation of kids on the platforms where they are already spending their time.

A Modern Reboot with Star-Studded Support

The new iteration of Reading Rainbow is set to premiere on October 4th, not on traditional television, but on the Sony Pictures Television YouTube channel, KidsZuko. This move reflects a savvy understanding of modern media consumption habits, meeting young audiences where they are.

The reboot promises to honor the original’s format while infusing it with fresh energy. Just like the classic series, the new Reading Rainbow will feature celebrity guest narrators who will bring a variety of children’s books to life. The official trailer teased an impressive lineup of “new friends” who are lending their voices to the cause, including:

• Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear)
• Gabrielle Union
• Adam DeVine
• Chrissy Teigen and John Legend
• Jamie Chung
• Rylee Arnold and Ezra Sosa (Dancing With The Stars)
• Bellen Woodard (14-year-old author of More Than Peach)

This star power not only adds excitement to the show but also continues the original’s tradition of showing children that reading is valued and celebrated by people from all walks of life. The inclusion of young authors like Bellen Woodard is particularly inspiring, as it shows kids that they too can be creators and storytellers.

Why the Return of Reading Rainbow Matters Now

The comeback of Reading Rainbow could not be more timely. In an era dominated by short-form video content and digital distractions, fostering a love for deep, engaged reading is more challenging—and more important—than ever. The show’s core mission to make reading a joyful and adventurous experience is a powerful antidote to the passive consumption of content.

Furthermore, the show’s commitment to showcasing diverse stories and voices remains a critical part of its DNA. By selecting books that reflect a wide range of cultures, experiences, and perspectives, Reading Rainbow helps children develop empathy and a broader understanding of the world. It teaches them that every person has a story worth telling and a story worth reading.

Conclusion: Take a Look, It’s in a Book

The news that Reading Rainbow returns after 20 years is more than just a piece of nostalgic pop culture news; it’s a hopeful sign for the future of children’s literacy. With the passionate and perfectly suited Mychal Threets at the helm, a new digital-first format, and the enthusiastic support of a new generation of stars, the beloved franchise is poised for a triumphant second act.

The magic of the original series was its simple, powerful belief that a book could take you anywhere. It taught children to be curious, to ask questions, and to seek out adventures between the pages of a story. Now, a new generation will get to experience that magic for themselves. As the iconic theme song reminds us, when we open a book, the possibilities are endless. It’s a lesson that is just as vital today as it was four decades ago. So, get ready to follow the rainbow once again.