In 2019, Marsai Martin made history when she became the youngest Hollywood executive producer ever at just 14 years old. She earned this prestigious honor thanks to her work as a producer on the film “Little,” which she also starred in alongside Regina Hall and Issa Rae.
“Little” tells the story of a tech CEO named Jordan Sanders (played by Hall) who wakes up one morning in the body of her 13-year-old self (played by Martin). The film grossed over $40 million at the U.S. box office alone and raked in $48.8 million worldwide – an impressive feat for the then-14-year-old Martin’s first time working as an executive producer.
Martin’s Inspiration and Passion Drove Her Vision for ‘Little’
The concept for “Little” was inspired by the classic film “Big,” which Martin saw for the first time when she was 10 years old. She was immediately drawn to the movie’s comedic premise of an adult character transforming into their younger self.
Martin brought the idea to Kenya Barris, the creator of ABC’s hit sitcom “Black-ish” that she stars on. Barris then connected with producer Will Packer, and they were both on board. Martin signed a deal with Universal Pictures to develop projects, and “Little” was greenlit shortly thereafter.
Martin’s creative vision for “Little” showcased wisdom and insight well beyond her years. She was dedicated to creating an entertaining story led by Black women that also provided important commentary on societal beauty standards.
Marsai Martin: Blazing Trails for Young Black Creators in Hollywood
Thanks to her groundbreaking success, Martin is inspiring a new generation of young Black Hollywood trailblazers. She hopes her achievements motivate the industry to provide more opportunities for diversity and representation behind the camera.
“I hope that [in 21 years] we won’t even have to be a first anymore: first black woman to do this, or first black male, or the first woman to do that,” Martin told Teen Vogue in an interview last year. “I hope that we always have diversity, that we have equality and representation every step of the way.”
At less than 20 years old, Martin shows no signs of slowing down. She launched her own production company, Genius Productions, which worked on a new film titled “StepMonster.”
With intelligence and determination well beyond her years, Marsai Martin serves as an inspiration while continuing to break down barriers for young Black creators in Hollywood. Her historic achievement as the youngest Black executive producer cements her rightful place in the entertainment history books.
