The Nancy Drew spinoff centered on Tom Swift has added to its cast — with LeVar Burton lending his voice to a pivotal role. Based on the classic novels, the titular detective was given a modern twist via The CW. Tackling more supernatural mysteries, Nancy Drew proved different from the books when it premiered in 2019. Regardless, it hit its stride and garnered a passionate following. As such, it was ultimately renewed for a second and third season.
The "Drewniverse" expanded in its sophomore year. That included an announced backdoor pilot for a Tom Swift-centric spinoff. Deadline has now revealed that Burton officially signed up. The veteran actor will feature as the voice of Tom's A.I: Barclay. Created by the genius inventor at eight years old, Barclay was described as "Tom’s Hype Man, Tom’s confidante, and Tom’s friend — with a surprising depth of emotion and a journey of his own to take." Burton will first be heard in Nancy Drew season 2, episode 15, "The Celestial Visitor" when Tom crashes into one of Nancy's investigations while on his own quest. Should Tom Swift receive full series order, the actor will reprise the role in a regular capacity.
Burton has amassed a wealth of credits and iconic characters during his career. He's no doubt been best-known, however, for playing Kunta Kinte in the ABC miniseries, Roots, and Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge on Star Trek: The Next Generation. Burton also hosted Reading Rainbow for 23 years. As such, many will immediately recognize his distinctive voice when he makes his Nancy Drew debut. As the Tony Stark to Burton's J.A.R.V.I.S, the billionaire genius that is Tom Swift was previously confirmed to be played by Tian Richards.
Nancy Drew has starred Kennedy McMann as the titular detective. The rest of the cast has been rounded out by Leah Lewis as George Fan, Tunji Kasim as Ned 'Nick' Nickerson, Maddison Jaizani as Bess Marvin, Alex Saxon as Ace, Riley Smith as Ryan Hudson, and Scott Wolf as Carson Drew. The second season also introduced Aadila Dosani and Praneet Akilla as The Bobbsey Twins, and Ryan-James Hatanaka as Detective Tamura.
Nancy Drew season 2, episode 15, "The Celestial Visitor" airs via The CW on May 12, 2021.
Source: Deadline