A'ja Wilson, WNBA, Las Vegas Aces
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

September 8, 2025

A’ja Wilson’s Record-Breaking Plays Makes Compelling Argument To Win League MVP Honors

The Aces player is the only player in the WNBA to have the most 30+ point games (13) in a single season in league history

The Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson may have locked down that MVP award after breaking yet another record when she scored 30 points in her most recent game, becoming the player to have the most 30+ point games in a single season in league history.

This season has seen Wilson score at least 30 points for the 13th time with three games to go before the playoffs begin. Wilson scored 31 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in an 80-66 win over the struggling Chicago Sky (10-32). The victory added another win to raise the Aces’ record to 28-14, extending their winning streak to 14 games. The latest win secures home-court advantage through the quarterfinals.

Although the win streak the Aces have is impressive, it is still short of the league record of 18, achieved by the Los Angeles Sparks in 2001. But with the current streak, the Las Vegas team became the fifth team to reach 14 straight victories.

Wilson has a league-leading 10 30-point/10-rebound double-doubles this season, with no other player having more than one. This game also widens the gap between Wilson’s career-leading 26 career 30/10 games over Tina Charles, who occupies the second spot with 15 of those games. The double-double was the 119th of her career, placing her as No. 5 among all-time WNBA leaders.

In August, the future WNBA Hall of Famer earned a league-record 13th Player of the Month Award after she averaged 29 points, 12.7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game, which led the team to a 12-1 record for the month. When she won Western Conference Player of the Week, it was the fifth time she had done so, raising her career numbers to a league second-best 27.

For the next contest, taking place Sept. 9, the Aces will host the Sky for their last home game of the regular season. 

RELATED CONTENT: A’ja Wilson Becomes 1st WNBA Player To Score 30 Points, Grab 20 Rebounds In A Game

AYO EDEBIRI, Elon Musk
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

September 8, 2025

Ayo Edebiri Checks Interviewer For Excluding Her From Question About Black Lives Matter

Edebiri looked very confused and bewildered after an interviewer blatantly excluded her from a question about Black Lives Matter and the Me Too movements.

Ayo Edebiri checked an interviewer who excluded her from a conversation on social justice movements like Black Lives Matter.

Edebiri was doing press with actors Andrew Garfield and Julia Roberts for their upcoming film After the Hunt. The film centers on a sexual assault scandal, and takes inspiration from the #MeToo movement. Given this, the trio has faced questions surrounding social justice causes.

However, a press junket left Edebiri feeling slighted as the interviewer pointed a question directly to Garfield and Roberts.

“What [do] we have to expect in Hollywood after the MeToo movement and the Black Lives Matter are done,” asked the interviewer, referencing the alleged “lost” era of political correctness.

All three actors looked shocked at the interviewer’s audacity to not include Edebiri, the sole Black woman in the panel. Despite the shock and confusion, the 29-year-old spoke out on her own behalf. She also questioned the intentions of the interviewer for not including her.

“Well, sorry,” interjected Edebiri. “I know that that’s not for me. And I don’t know if it’s purposeful, if it’s about me — but I just am curious. I don’t think it’s done.”

Roberts and Garfield echoed her statements as The Bear actress emphasized how these movements live on, especially for vulnerable communities.

“I don’t think it’s done at all,” Edebiri continued. “I think maybe hashtags might not be used as much. But I do think that there’s work being done by activists, by people every day, that’s beautiful, important work that’s not finished. That’s really, really, really active for a reason ’cause this world is really charged, and that work isn’t finished at all.”

She added, “Maybe if there’s not mainstream coverage in the way that there might have been, daily headlines in the way it might have been eight or so years ago, but I don’t think that means that the work is done.”

As the moment went viral, people called out the interviewer’s tone-deafness. Many deemed the move to exclude Edebiri from a question regarding Blackness weird. One X user called it “actual insanity.”

Another user considered the matter insensitive to Edebiri’s identity and ability to broach the topic with nuance.

“Oh, Ayo [Edebiri] lowkey saved everyone in that room from getting clocked for insensitivity,” shared the commenter.

Others also saluted Roberts and Garfield for letting Edebiri take the mic to stand up for the apparent micro-aggression. However, the instance still made people recognize how the entertainment industry often marginalizes Black actors, even on subjects that directly impact them.

RELATED CONTENT: Tyler Smith Aims To Be First Gen Z Man Elected To Texas House, Vows To Fight For Families

grade level|rosa higgs, Serlina Boyd, magazine, interview, Halle Bailey
by Black Enterprise

September 8, 2025

14 Black Children’s Books For Young Readers On International Literacy Day

These Black children’s books celebrate diversity and identity.

On International Literacy Day, BLACK ENTERPRISE is showcasing Black children’s books that celebrate their diversity and identity, featuring characters and compelling narratives that resonate with young readers, transcending time and borders. Many of these acclaimed titles have received awards for their storytelling and educational significance across historical and contemporary themes, fostering meaningful conversations and connections for readers of all ages in various formats like print, digital or audio. These books can be borrowed from libraries or purchased from local and online Black bookstores or directly from suppliers to enjoy in school or at home. 

Yaya And The Sea

Karen Goode Marable shares the rich tale of Yaya, a young girl accompanying her mother on a NYC train ride to several aunties at the beach for a day of bonding and fellowship. Yaya gets a firs-thand experience of Black female friendships and spirituality that will last her a lifetime. Marable was recently honored as the 2025 Georgia Author of the Year for Yaya and the Sea, ranked as one of the best illustrated books by The New York Times for 2024. 

I Am Enough

This 2018 children’s book, written by Grace Byers and illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo, promotes self-appreciation and inner beauty in children through affirmations and messages of self-worth. 

The Day You Begin

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael López is a heartwarming tale that explores surroundings and the discovery of strength. Released in 2018, the text’s approach to dealing with anxiety makes it an excellent choice for young readers. The Day You Begin is available in schools, libraries and bookstores. 

Hair Love

This 2019 book, about a Black father styling his daughter’s natural hair, is inspired by the award-winning film of the same name by former NFL player Matthew Cherry and is illustrated by Vashti Harrison. Available in e-book and print editions, it is a celebration of Black family connections and the beauty of Black hair. 

Bud, Not Buddy

Christopher Paul Curtis’ enthralling 1999 middle-grade book tells the story of a boy growing up during the Great Depression. Bud, a 10-year-old boy, leaves home and sets out to find the father he has never met. Bud, Not Buddy combines engaging storytelling with depth and emotion. The novel won the Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King Author Award. 

Last Stop On Market Street

Last Stop on Market Street (2015) follows a boy and his grandmother as they appreciate the simple joys of their everyday lives together in the cityscape around them. Among the book’s honors: the Newbery Medal and Caldecott honors.

The Golden Hoops

Jen Lee Hayes pays homage to her late mother, who loved hoop earrings. The book follows Janey, a young girl who earns her very first pair of golden hoops as a rite of passage, but loses one. Released Sept. 4, The Golden Hoops leans into themes of “identity, legacy, and bold self-expression.” 

New Kid

Jerry Craft’s 2019 graphic novel New Kid delves into the life of a student adjusting to a prestigious new school setting. The tale presents a story that beautifully delves into topics like self-identity, microaggressions, and the quest for belonging.

The compelling read has earned the Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award and is accessible in print and digital formats.

The Snowy Day

In the children’s book, The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats, a young Black boy embarks on an adventure through his neighborhood on the first day of the season’s snowfall in 1962. The Snowy Day is a groundbreaking work that introduced an African American protagonist and earned a prestigious award for its innovative storytelling approach. The book is cherished by many for capturing the pure joy of Black childhood exploration in a white winter wonderland.

The Undefeated

The Undefeated has been transformed into a picture book, celebrating the accomplishments and strength of African Americans. Kwame Alexander and artist Kadir Nelson collaborated on the book in 2019, which is widely accessible to readers everywhere. With lovely verses and evocative illustrations, this book beautifully acknowledges the journey in a manner that is both enlightening and inspiring for all who explore its pages.

Tar Beach

In 1991’s Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold, a young Black girl dreams of flying above Harlem. The story was first brought to life through a story quilt that captivated readers with its poetic narrative and unique artistic style. Thirty-plus years later, Tar Beach remains as whimsical and is still available in print. It’s the perfect read for children to delve into a vivid experience, combining art and literature seamlessly. 

Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream

Penned by Deloris and Roslyn Jordan with Kadir Nelson as illustrator, this 1995 book explores the childhood dreams of basketball icon Michael Jordan in his pursuit of greatness. It is accessible to young readers who are into sports and eager to read a real-life tale of determination and drive toward achieving one’s goals. (Deloris is Michael’s mother; Roslyn is Michael’s sister.)

Rosa

Rosa, released in 2005 as a tribute to the civil rights icon Rosa Parks, received a Caldecott Honor winner for its blend of poetic language and art that brings history alive for children in an engaging way. The book is accessible to readers of all ages.

Freewater

Freewater tells the adventure of a group of enslaved individuals who escape captivity. The book was released in 2022 and received both the Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King Award. It can be found in bookstores and libraries, providing readers with a deep dive into early African American history through a compelling narrative style. 

RELATED CONTENT: Elevating Your Excellence: Denene Millner Is A GOAT In The Literary Game

Billy porter, pose
by Kandiss Edwards

September 8, 2025

Billy Porter To Exit ‘Cabaret’ On Broadway Due To Life-Threatening Illness

Billy Porter a veteran in the theatre drew audiences to the production, which was reportedly struggling with ticket sales.

Billy Porter is unable to continue performing his lead role in his Broadway production “Cabaret and the Kit Kat Club” due to declining health.

Porter is a veteran of the stage, but his current diagnosis of sepsis necessitated his exit from the show. Sepsis is a life-threatening infection that can lead to multiple organ failure and death if not treated immediately, according to the Cleveland Clinic. On Sep. 7, “Cabaret’s” official Instagram, KitKat Club, made the announcement. Producers revealed Porter’s diagnosis and announced the final Sep. 21 show.

“Come hear the music play. Final performance September 21. Due to a serious case of sepsis, Billy Porter must also withdraw from the production. His doctors are confident that he will make a full recovery, but have advised him to maintain a restful schedule. Marty Lauter and David Merino will perform as Emcee for the final 2 weeks. Performance schedule to be announced,” the post read.

Porter’s role as the Emcee, a character known for its dramatic flair and dark humor, has been praised since the show’s return to Broadway. Porter is a powerhouse in the theatre. Known for groundbreaking roles in his Tony-winning performance in “Kinky Boots” to his Emmy-winning work on the television series “Pose,” Porter’s absence will be deeply felt. His early exit from “Cabaret” may be a disappointment for many, but it was necessary for his health.

In a statement, ATG Productions’ show producer, Adam Speers, expressed well wishes and admiration for Porter.

“Billy was an extraordinary Emcee, bringing his signature passion and remarkable talent,” the producer wrote in a statement. “We wish Billy a speedy recovery, and I look forward to working with him again in the very near future.”

Originally slated to take the stage of the August Wilson Theatre through Oct. 21, Porter’s final performance as the iconic Emcee will now take place on Sep. 21. According to reports, the 56-year-old’s doctors have advised an immediate period of rest to ensure Porter’s full recovery. 

RELATED CONTENT: Billy Porter’s New Gender-Neutral Beauty Line Is Made For ‘People Who Want To Explore’

fund, SCFU, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Dwyane Wade, Social Change Fund United
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

September 8, 2025

The Redeem Team Inducted Into Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

The team won the 2008 Gold Medal in the Olympics

The Redeem Team, the USA Basketball squad that was put together to reclaim the Olympic gold medal in 2008 in Beijing, after the United States lost its dominance in international play, was inducted into this year’s Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

That 2008 All-Star basketball team did redeem the dominance that the United States had enjoyed prior to the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece, where the Olympic team only won the Bronze Medal. Every player who participated in bringing the glory back to the country in basketball was in attendance over the weekend, except Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, who died in a helicopter crash in 2020.

According to NBC Sports, Carmelo Anthony, Carlos Boozer, Chris Bosh, Dwight Howard, LeBron James, Jason Kidd, Chris Paul, Tayshaun Prince, Michael Redd, Dwyane Wade, and Deron Williams were in Springfield, Massachusetts, to accept their place in the Hall of Fame. Also joining them were head coach Mike Krzyzewski, assistant coaches Jim Boeheim and Mike D’Antoni, and managing director Jerry Colangelo.

James acknowledged Bryant’s role on the team when the collective sat down for a panel, which was moderated by Ahmad Rashad.

“(Bryant) was the missing link that we needed in order to regain the dominance with Team USA,” James said.

The team was being advertised as the second coming of the original Dream Team, which consisted of NBA players, including one college athlete. Before the organization of the Dream Team, the USA Basketball team typically featured college students, before the rest of the world caught up to the Americans in terms of athleticism and competition in basketball play.

That 1992 Olympic team is considered to be the best basketball team ever assembled in the world. The players were: Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, John Stockton, David Robinson, Scottie Pippen, Charles Barkley, Chris Mullin, Larry Bird, Patrick Ewing, Clyde Drexler, Karl Malone, and Christian Laettner, who was the lone non-professional on the team.

Two of the members of the gold medal-winning team, Anthony and Howard, were also inducted individually for their careers.

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venus, serena, tennis, tiktok
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

September 8, 2025

Serena And Venus Williams Launch Program For Underserved Youth To Become ‘Leaders Of Tomorrow’

The program will be all about excellence for families with the dreams to succeed.

Tennis legends Serena and Venus Williams are taking their talents from the court to the classroom with a new education program for underserved youth.

The sibling sport stars will run Williams Family Excellence Program in partnership with the USTA foundation. The program will uplift diverse youth beyond the realms of tennis, offering mentorship as well as academic support and career pathways for the “leaders of tomorrow.”

The USTA announced the news Sept. 4 during the U.S. Open Women’s Semifinals. Its foundation further celebrated the news in an Instagram Reel honoring the Williams family as they created sports history.

The family came together with a vision and purpose for the sisters from Compton, California. Now, this program will support families just like theirs as they help children reach their fullest potential.

“We are honored to have this program named after our family and are proud to partner with the USTA Foundation to help create the leaders of tomorrow,” Venus and Serena explained in a statement, according to the U.S. Open. “Our parents always encouraged us to strive for excellence, and tennis provided us the platform and opportunity to follow our dreams and achieve those moments. We truly believe this program will continue using the sport to provide others the opportunity to dream big and leave their own marks.”

The program will help youth and young adults ages 13 to 25, with 2,500 expected participants within the decade. In its “Accelerating Excellence of Future Champions” pillar, the program will join forces with local communal organizations benefitting underrepresented neighborhoods. Together, they will provide “no-cost or low-cost high-performance training, college recruitment guidance, and access to camps and competitions.”

With its other two pillars, the initiative will also sponsor scholarships, internships, and an entrepreneurship program for students with ambitions outside sports. The venture aligns with the Williams’ own ambitions to create a legacy outside their playing time. While Serena is an avid investor and owner of her own beauty line, WYN Beauty, Venus also owns her own clothing brand, EleVen, as well as an AI-focused startup, Palazzo.

As the two shape their careers within and beyond the tennis court, they remain committed to helping others find power in their own rackets. USTA chairman of the board, Brian Vahaly, spoke of how these sports trailblazers will continue paving the way for others to find success.

“Venus and Serena Williams have inspired millions of people to play tennis, but their impact goes far beyond trophies and titles,” said  Vahaly, USTA chairman of the board, president, and interim co-CEO, per the U.S. Open. “They changed the game in culture, fashion, and business, and their story is one of courage and resilience. This program will carry that legacy forward by giving young people the same sense of possibility that the Williams family has given all of us.”

RELATED CONTENT: Serena Williams’ Next Serve: Tennis Champ Joins Ritual As First Women’s Health Advisor

MLK speech, Sarah Huckabee Sanders
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

September 8, 2025

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders Leaves Black Students Standing In The Rain During Her MLK Jr. Speech

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders faces backlash for leaving Black cheerleaders standing in the rain during her MLK Jr. speech.

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders faces criticism over a viral photo showing her speaking comfortably under a tent while Black cheerleaders stood behind her in cold, rainy conditions.

On Sept. 7, a photo surfaced online showing Huckabee Sanders giving a speech under a tent while a group of student cheerleaders stood behind her, exposed to rain and cold winds. Ironically, the Republican governor was speaking in support of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. committee when the group of Black students was left standing uncomfortably in the rain.

“Wow, this photo of Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders giving a speech while literally leaving students out in the rain behind her is getting a lot of attention,” a tweet read. “Perfectly symbolic of conservatives in America, leaving your kids out in the rain.”

https://twitter.com/sirdukedevin/status/1964795729811324929?s=46&t=v0SNRYUQEuA0RgNp85WsUw

Social media was quick to issue sharp responses to the photo, which many interpreted as the governor being oblivious to how uncomfortable the student cheerleaders were during the event.

“Poor kids look miserable…she doesn’t give a damn…” one person wrote.

“To a conservative, they’ll notice one thing these kids have in common, and the hearts and minds will snap shut like bear traps,” added someone else.

Another user shared a photo of Huckabee seated beside an image of Martin Luther King Jr., highlighting the irony of the governor’s gesture.

“She was able to get this while nice and dry, sitting under the tent. Ironic, huh?” they wrote.

Later that day, Huckabee Sanders sent a letter to the boards of trustees at Arkansas State University and the University of Arkansas, urging them to make the annual football game at War Memorial Stadium a tradition. While the A-State and Arkansas teams faced off for the first time on Sept. 6, the viral photo of cheerleaders in the rain quickly overshadowed her petition.

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harlem renaissance
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

September 8, 2025

Harlem Man Learns His Apartment Is Rent-Stabilized After 20 Years, ‘I Was Robbed’

A Harlem man overpaid on rent for 20 years before learning his apartment was rent-stabilized.

Richard Carroll Jr. is receiving some relief after nearly being evicted from his Harlem apartment, where he had unknowingly overpaid rent on his stabilized unit for more than 20 years.

Carroll, an artist, moved into the apartment in 2004, believing $1,200 a month was a good deal, although he was told the official rent was $2,000, according to a Gothamist report. Over time, the unit fell apart with a broken stove, decaying windowsills, faulty lights, a bedroom door off its hinges, and rats in the kitchen wall.

In 2022, a new landlord who had bought the building attempted to evict him, despite his being current on rent. It wasn’t until Carroll decided to fight back that he discovered the unit had been rent-stabilized until his move-in. Court records revealed the previous tenant paid under $500 a month, while Caroll’s rent had since risen to $1,425.

“I was robbed for $1,000 a month for 20-something years. That’s how I felt,” Carroll said. “My apartment was in total decay. So, I paid an extra $1,000 a month for 20 years, and I didn’t even have a livable space.”

Tenants must request a unit’s rent history from the state Division of Housing and Community Renewal to confirm if it’s rent-stabilized. Once Carroll did, his attorney found he qualified for special protections against the landlord’s eviction attempt.

“I would never have known,” Carroll said. “They could have done anything to me, and I would’ve had to leave and never have known my rights.”

Court records show Carroll’s apartment was rent-stabilized from the 1980s through the early 2000s, with the legal rent listed at $489.50 in 2002. The following year, the landlord claimed the unit was exempt under a now-defunct “high rent vacancy” rule that allowed deregulation once rent passed a certain threshold after a tenant left.

Landlords could raise rent by making major, not routine, upgrades, but during eviction proceedings, Carroll’s landlord couldn’t prove enough work had been done. Housing court judge, Jack Stoller, ruled that while deregulation would have required over $56,000 in renovations, records showed only about $22,000 in improvements.

“The preponderance of the evidence, therefore, shows that Respondent is a Rent-Stabilized tenant of the subject premises and an eviction proceeding without cause does not lie,” Stoller wrote.

Carroll isn’t seeking reimbursement for the rent he’s already paid. For now, he’s waiting for the landlord to set a new rate, hoping it will be lower.

Brooklyn Democrat City Councilmember Sandy Nurse, who also discovered she’d been overpaying for a rent-stabilized apartment, sponsored a bill passed earlier this year requiring landlords to post signs informing tenants about regulated units and how to confirm if their apartment is rent-stabilized.

“This lack of knowledge is really beneficial to landlords, of course, who want to continue to raise the rent and get their units out of the stabilization regime,” Nurse said.

Nurse is helping tenants in her building understand their rights, emphasizing that during each lease renewal, they should challenge any proposed rent increases that violate the law.

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Harriett's Bookshop, Philadelphia, Black Girl Picnic Marks 5th Annual Event With New Black Literacy Campaign To Gift 1000 Books
by Ahsan Washington

September 8, 2025

7 Online Literacy Programs To Tap Into On International Literacy Day

This year’s theme is “Advancing Literacy in the Digital Age”

Sept. 8 marks International Literacy Day, which aims to highlight the importance of reading and writing abilities in individuals globally. The current focus centers on the theme “Advancing Literacy in the Digital Age,” highlighting how technology plays a role in broadening horizons worldwide. Discover below a variety of literacy initiatives that are easily accessible in the digital domain and actively contributing to positive change.

We Read Too / Read to Succeed 

The We Read application is available for free on smartphones! This app is designed to introduce kids to stories featuring characters from a variety of diverse communities, as well as other marginalized identities like Indigenous peoples and People of Color. Launched around 2017 through NBCDIs Read to Succeed initiative program. This platform lets users explore genres and titles while providing summaries and cover images for each book, and links to make purchases easily accessible! The goal of the app is to ensure that children see reflections of themselves in the stories they read. 

Young, Black & Lit (YB&L)

The organization Young Black & Lit (YB&L) aims to enhance the availability of children’s books that focus on and validate the experiences of children by offering access to these books to young readers and families while also promoting diversity and equal opportunity in literature distribution.

AALBC.com (African American Literature Book Club)

The African American Literature Book Club has existed since March 1998, through its website AALBC.com. The site focuses on literature and movies related to African Americans. It includes critiques of works and information about authors, along with resources for writers. Still operating today as a platform that is accessible worldwide. AALBC’s primary goal is to curate and highlight Black literature while also backing writers and fostering a community centered around American narratives and media.

Black is Lit (by Tiffany Herndon)

Black is Lit is a group founded by Tiffany Herndon, a Black educator from California. Black is Lit promotes reading books related to the Black community and engages in discussions on the internet platform. The platform initially catered to high school students but now spans across grades 6 – 12 in Aspire Public Schools in California. The primary goal is to combat declining literacy rates among Black students by offering educational assistance and showcasing diversity in literature.

The Rooted Curriculum

The curriculum created by The Melanin Village incorporates literature and brief lessons on the stories and achievements of Black Americans to support literacy among K–8 educators. It strives to integrate lesser-known Black voices into language arts and social studies in a culturally affirming way.

Reading Revolution Online

Reading Revolution Online is a web-based platform that provides lessons that combine literacy with themes of culture and identity. It strives to enhance reading abilities and self-confidence, and addresses parental concerns regarding the omission of authentic African American history within educational institutions. Learners interact with videos accompanied by captions and text to enhance their reading skills while exploring vocabulary and grammar exercises highlighting figures of significance. The program has been in operation since January 2023. Reading Revolution Online is easily accessible from any location or device. 

Black College Professor Develops Online Program That Helps Students Drastically Improve Reading, Cultural Awareness

1619 Freedom School – Liberation Through Literacy Curriculum 

Developed by Nikole Hannah Jones, along with Dr. Sabrina Wesley Nero and Dr. LaGarrett King. The literacy program is deeply rooted in Black American history and culture. Tailored for use in after-school programs and literacy support initiatives, this curriculum is also accessible online as an open-source tool. Introduced in 2021, it is now available nationwide. With a focus on enhancing achievements and promoting empowerment, the curriculum utilizes identity-affirming literature and literacy teachings that draw from Black historical context.

RELATED CONTENT: National Black Association Of Black Bookstores Launches To Assist Black Bookstores

Marsai Martin
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

September 8, 2025

Why Marsai Martin Has No Plans To Touch Her Coogan Account, A Protected Savings For Child Actors

Martin has no plans to tap into her childhood savings for the foreseeable future.

Marsai Martin has been on screens since grade school, but has learned a thing or two along the way.

The 21-year-old actress got her start in television with a commercial at age 5. However, she had her breakout moment when she earned a role as feisty twin Diane on ABC’s “Black-ish,” which ran from 2014 to 2022. Being on the main cast meant serious checks signed to Martin for nearly a decade.

However, the young entertainer has kept her earnings under lock and key, with no plans to use the money she saved from her early career. Instead, her parents set aside a portion of her paycheck into a Coogan account, a protected savings account meant for child stars, according to City National Bank.

While officially an adult with access to that money, Martin will not dive into her trusty savings. Despite this, the young woman has never been afraid to branch out into other realms of entertainment.

At just 14 years old, she broke records by becoming the youngest executive producer with her 2019 film “Little.” The film resulted in the creation of her own production company, Genius Productions.

However, she won’t be bankrolling any new films with the money she made during her younger years. She told Afrotech how she understands the importance of keeping the Coogan account untouched.

“It’s important to be able to know and understand saving and finances overall. I’m not planning on touching it,” Martin explained.

However, she attributes her financial ease and wisdom to her family. With her parents and grandparents supporting her, Martin takes every step to secure and expand professional opportunities for herself.

“When I was younger, honestly, I was just me doing what I love,” shared the film producer. “I was not really paying attention to how that was because I knew that they were navigating it.”

Martin added, “When I got older, like, 17, 18, that’s when it was like, ‘Alright, here’s all the things that we’ve been working up towards, and this is what it is now.’ I think it’s been a whirlwind of conversations and understanding and building a team that also understands our goals and where we’re trying to go.”

In the meantime, she hopes to further elevate her career with new projects and ambitions. However, she aims to do so all while keeping her younger self’s earnings protected.

“But you just never know. I feel like with the things that I wanna do and the different industries I wanna tap into, there [are] so many different business lanes and ventures I can jump into. With the family that I have, to push through and achieve anything that comes to mind is very important. So we’ll see,” she continued.

Martin also has other interests beyond acting. She already owns investment properties while furthering Sai’s Summer Cookout, her annual traveling event that bridges communities through food and fellowship. The cookout took place at Texas Southern University in Houston this August.

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