Commissioned by Cartoon Network and its streaming platform Max, the series has been created by Nigerian producer Roye Okupe, founder of YouNeek Studios.
Lion Forge Entertainment has announced that an animated series, Iyanu, based on Roye Okupe’s acclaimed Nigerian superhero graphic novel, is set to premiere in 2025. The series will be available to audiences on Showmax in 44 African countries and on Cartoon Network and Max in the US.
The story follows an orphan who must uncover the mystery of her newfound powers to save her people from an ancient curse. Set in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland, Iyanu: Child of Wonder is adapted from Okupe’s popular graphic novel series, published by Dark Horse Comics.
The series features an all-African voice cast led by Serah Johnson as Iyanu, including Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Stella Damasus, Blossom Chukwujekwu and Shaffy Bello. It is produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, the Emmy-winning company behind the Oscar-winning short film Hair Love.
Roye Okupe, the creator, said: “One of the reasons I started YouNeek Studios was because I grew up watching superhero stories on DStv in Lagos, Nigeria. It’s an understatement to say that I’m delighted Showmax will introduce Nigerian children to Iyanu, a superhero who looks and sounds like them.”
Lion Forge Entertainment Founder and CEO David Steward II added: “Iyanu is a series that plays to young audiences everywhere in the world, but its heart and roots are in Africa, where it was conceptualised and created by Roye. This is why we’re so proud to announce a deal with Showmax to stream Iyanu in 44 countries throughout Africa. We envision African children being inspired by Iyanu – and a superhero world shaped around their own.”
Dr Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, at MultiChoice, stated: “We are excited that African animation is gaining recognition and captivating audiences both locally and internationally. It’s a pivotal moment for African storytelling not only because we are telling our stories, but that African audiences will be among the first to see these stories come to life. Animation is fast becoming a popular genre for our audiences as it cuts across age divides and is enjoyed by the whole family. As the largest producer of African content globally, MultiChoice is proud to bring this remarkable story of Iyanu that weaves the magic of our Nigerian culture with great entertainment to our customers on Showmax across Africa.”
The show’s writing team was led by story editor Brandon Easton, with Kerri Grant also contributing. Executive producers include David Steward II and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment, Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod.
