'Black-ish' Star Marsai Martin, 16, Nabs Guinness World Record for Youngest Hollywood Producer

"Black-ish" star Marsai Martin has accomplished a major breakthrough in her teenage life. She was hailed by Guinness World Records as the youngest Hollywood producer at 16.

Actress Marsai Martin, known for her role as Diana Johnson in "Black-ish," did not enter Hollywood just to act. The young teen proved that she is more than her role on television.

At 16, she earned the Guinness World Records title for being the youngest Hollywood executive producer and the brain behind the 2019 breakout film "Little."

A RECORD-BREAKING MOMENT

It was Martin who pitched "Little" to "Black-ish" creator Kenya Barris. The teenage star’s idea for “Little” began in her living room and initially told her parents about her future plans for her film.

Martin was 14 when the comedy-fantasy movie was released on April 12, 2019. The young actress was stunned to learn that she will be part of Guinness’ 2021 edition book. She said:

"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."

Martin already received the recognition from Guinness which she earlier shared on her Instagram account. The young star looked happy that she reached the remarkable milestone at a young age.

She expressed her gratitude to the people who helped execute her idea. She wrote that it was an amazing honor to break a record, as she never thought "Little" would become historic.

As a rising star in the entertainment industry, Martin is not spared from online hate.

HER UNIQUE TAKE ON FILM

Aside from producing the film, Martin also played a role alongside acclaimed actresses Issa Rae and Regina Hall. In the movie, Hall played a harsh tech mogul who woke up in the body of her 13-year-old self, played by the young actress.

With her incredible feat in Hollywood at a young age, Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer said that Martin has offered a unique perspective as a creator and producer that resonates with all audiences.

As she waits for her appearance in the Guinness book next year, Martin has been working on another film titled "StepMonster," together with her production company, Genius Productions.

DEALING WITH INTERNET TROLLS

As a rising star in the entertainment industry, Martin is not spared from online hate. The actress, who grew up in the spotlight, was criticized for her looks during the 2020 virtual BET Awards in June.

Critics reportedly compared Martin’s blonde hair to a grandmother’s wig and speculated that the young actress was wearing dental veneers. She then took to Instagram to air her side.

She first apologized for not meeting her critics' expectations and later on appeared to tear up, using a piece of dollar to wipe her tears. Towards the end, she said in a serious look that there are more important matters to focus on than her hair.

Martin has amassed several recognitions in the entertainment world. Her role in "Black-ish" earned her awards and nominations including the NAACP Image Awards, Young Artist Awards, and the Kidscreen Awards.

The actress, who started acting at the age of five for a TV commercial, also made it to the 30 under 30 Forbes list under the Hollywood Entertainment Category last January.