Guinness World Records has officially recognized Black-ish star Marsai Martin as the youngest executive producer in Hollywood. Martin set the record in 2019 at the age of 16 when she executive produced Little with Regina Hall and Issa Rae. However, Guinness did not officially present Martin with her plaque until this year.
Little follow the story of businesswoman Jordan Sanders, played by Regina Hall. While successful, Sanders is well known for treating her employees and coworkers poorly. She is ultimately humbled when a magic spell reduces her to a child like state personified by Martin. Throughout the movie, Martin and Sanders' assistant, played by Issa Rae, helps Martin return to her adult self.
"It was so fun and so exciting because I always want to create things that make me happy. It’s insane when it actually comes to fruition," Martin said about the process of workshopping, producing and releasing the movie.
"I was very shocked for sure. For me, I could have never imagined being a part of something like this, I am so beyond grateful to be part of it."
The movie proved to be immensely successful. Martin and company brought in nearly $50 million worldwide and earned two NAACP Image Awards. It also set up her first-look deal with Universal Pictures and former hosting gig on Quibi. Moving forward, she hopes that her work can inspire other young Black girls like herself.
"I hope that all the young Black girls out there really see how a change can really happen, just by being yourself, just by any imagination you have that can run wild. You only live once so go for it," she said.
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