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Summary
Marsai Martin, who became the youngest Hollywood executive producer at 14 with the 2019 film Little, continues to make waves at 20 through her acting, producing, and commitment to representation in the entertainment industry.
Marsai Martin holds the Guinness World Record as the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history, a title she earned at 14 years old with the 2019 film Little. As of April 2025, the now 20-year-old continues to thrive as an actress and producer, making waves in the entertainment industry.
Born on August 14, in Plano, Texas, Marsai began her acting journey with her breakout role as Diane Johnson on the hit ABC sitcom Black-ish (2014–2022). During her time on the show, she pitched the idea for Little, a comedy inspired by the 1988 classic Big.
The story follows a domineering tech mogul who is magically transformed into her 13-year-old self, giving her a second chance to learn empathy and kindness. Marsai conceived the idea when she was just 10 years old, developing it in her living room before presenting it to Black-ish creator Kenya Barris. The film starred Regina Hall, Issa Rae, and Marsai Martin herself and was directed by Tina Gordon. It was produced by Universal Pictures and featured an all-Black lead cast.
When Little was released on April 12, 2019, Marsai Martin was just 14 years and 241 days old, making her the youngest Hollywood executive producer, a feat officially recognised by Guinness World Records. Not content with producing alone, Marsai Martin also played the lead role, managing responsibilities on both sides of the camera.
Speaking about the experience, She said it pushed her to trust her instincts, find her voice, and speak her mind, skills she believes have shaped her as both a creative and a leader.
Marsai Martin’s accomplishments didn’t stop there. She founded her own production company, Genius Productions. She signed a first-look deal with Universal Pictures in 2019, becoming the youngest person to ink such a deal with a major studio.
Her passion for representation and inclusive storytelling continues to shine. She has since produced and starred in films like Fantasy Football, voiced characters in PAW Patrol: The Movie and its sequel, and in 2022, was named one of Time magazine’s Time 100 Next for her influence in entertainment.
