Black-ish star Marsai Martin might only be 14, but she's already making some huge moves. As Variety reports, Martin and her Genius Productions company have signed a first-look deal with Universal Pictures. More importantly, she's already got her first movie in the deal lined up.
Martin is slated to develop a number of scripted projects for Universal, and her first movie under the deal is the comedy StepMonster. She will develop the projects alongside Genius Productions co-founder Joshua Martin, head of creative Prince Baggett, and VP Carol Martin. Last month she delivered the first trailer for Little, the comedy she's both starring in and producing.
Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer had nothing but praise for Martin upon announcing the deal. "Working with emerging talent is a cornerstone of Universal’s overall slate strategy and Marsai is a star on the rise," Cramer explained. "She is not only tremendously talented in front of the camera but offers a unique perspective as a creator and producer that will resonate with all audiences. We look forward to moviegoers getting to see how brilliant she is in Little and watching her evolve as a filmmaker here at Universal."
Speaking about the deal, Martin said, "I am so excited for the magic I'll be able to create and produce with Universal." The 14-year-old actress also praised Cramer's commitment to diversity within Universal's projects. "Mr. Cramer and Ms. Langley’s commitment to investing in, and uplifting diverse and young voices is both refreshing and important, and I’m happy to be a part of that legacy," she added. "My goal is to show young women and girls that our voices and ideas matter and you are never too young to dream BIG!"
