JANUARY 24, 2022 - Yesterday was the 45th anniversary of the first episode of Roots, in which LeVar Burton broke out in his role as Kunta Kinte. Burton sat down with ET to reflect on that and other anniversaries he is celebrating, the 35th of Star Trek: The Next Generation and the 30th of his marriage with Stephanie Cozart Burton, an award-winning television and film makeup artist.

While Burton recognizes the staying power of Star Trek and the dedication of fans to the franchise, he says, "What I treasure the most is the relationships. That group of people ... we love each other genuinely. We are still an active part of one another's lives, and that's the gift that keeps on giving. People from all over the world really do love this franchise, but for me it's about the relationships. It's about how my life has been immeasurably enhanced by knowing and associating with these people for 35 years."

In a video featured in the article, Burton also hints very strongly, after saying, “How do I answer this without getting myself in trouble?” that talks are underway regarding his appearance as Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: Picard. He said nothing has been filmed but that “you’ll see us all,” if not all at once.

For more from LeVar Burton, including the lasting legacy of Roots and his plans for his wedding anniversary, head over to ETOnline.