Mychal Threets, known on TikTok as Mychal the Librarian, has faced criticism about everything from his colorful clothes to his voice. In a 2023 TikTok, he addressed a Twitter thread calling him “weird” and “autistic,” even inviting his critics to hang out at the library. Despite the online bullying, Threets’s following has grown to 815,000 on TikTok, and he’s now set to become the host of the beloved children’s series, “Reading Rainbow”
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The show, which was off the air for nearly two decades, is making a comeback after launching in 1983 with LeVar Burton as host. “Reading Rainbow” quickly became a staple in classrooms, promoting a love of books in young readers and winning 26 Emmy awards during its 26-year run. While Burton won’t be returning, Threets is already generating significant buzz. The California native, who was homeschooled, developed his love for libraries as a child. In addition to sharing book reviews, he has been open about his personal struggles with anxiety and depression, offering words of support to others dealing with mental health issues. Now, he’s bringing his unique passion for books and his message of acceptance to a new generation as the star of an Emmy-award-winning show.
“It’s not ok to say mean, cruel things about people, but I hope you remember that when people are really suffering sometimes they resort to meanness, cruelty because that’s how they feel about themselves,” he said. “I hope they still remember they still belong at the library.”
Those who love Mychal and his infectious energy are standing by his side.
“We ride at dawn for you Mychal,” someone wrote on TikTok.
Now, the announcement of the “Reading Rainbow” reboot is getting lots of love from fans who grew up with the original, and they’re even more thrilled that Threets will be picking up where LeVar Burton left off. His September 29 announcement of his hosting duties got over 95,000 likes on TikTok.
“You are the perfect host for bringing Reading Rainbow back for a whole new generation! ❤️❤️❤️Congrats and let’s get these kids excited for reading!” wrote someone.
TikToker Michaele was clearly emotional about the news of the reboot, sharing her
“Reading Rainbow is back and Mychal the librarian is the host. This generation might learn to read after all,” she captioned a post.
But while the show’s new host is getting a warm welcome, some old school “Reading Rainbow” fans say they wouldn’t be mad if LeVar Burton showed up in an episode or two.
“If there’s a LeVar Burton cameo i might pass away 😭🥹,” wrote someone on TikTok.
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