African animation is set to reach new heights with the premiere of Iyanu, a thrilling animated series adapted from Roye Okupe’s acclaimed graphic novel series, Iyanu: Child of Wonder. Scheduled to debut on June 13, the highly anticipated show will be available for streaming on Showmax across 44 African countries, marking a major milestone for African storytelling in animation.
The series follows the journey of Iyanu, a courageous young orphan living in the mystical kingdom of Yorubaland. As she struggles with her desire for an ordinary life, an impending danger awakens divine abilities not seen since the legendary Age of Wonders. With her newfound powers and the support of her loyal friends Biyi and Toye, along with a magical leopard named Ekun, Iyanu embarks on a quest to uncover the root of the evil threatening her world, ultimately unlocking her true destiny.
At the helm of the project is Roye Okupe, who serves as the executive producer and showrunner. The series is produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, a Black-owned animation powerhouse based in North America. David Steward II, CEO and Founder of Lion Forge Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “We’ve witnessed the dedication and heart that Roye Okupe and our entire team have poured into this series, and we’re all excited to see it premiere on Cartoon Network, Max, and Showmax soon. Iyanu represents a major leap forward in our commitment to telling culturally rich stories that resonate with audiences around the globe, and we’re confident audiences will share in our excitement.”
What makes Iyanu stand out is its deep-rooted connection to Nigerian culture, mythology, and music. The series presents a vibrant and immersive experience, capturing the essence of African heritage through its storytelling and visuals. By showcasing traditional folklore and supernatural elements inspired by Yoruba mythology, Iyanu aims to offer a fresh perspective in the animation industry while celebrating Africa’s rich history and traditions.
The show boasts an impressive all-African voice cast, featuring Serah Johnson as Iyanu, Okey Jude as Biyi, Samuel Kugbiyi as Toye, and notable actors such as Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Stella Damasus, Shaffy Bello, and Ike Ononye in pivotal roles.
With its strong narrative, compelling characters, and authentic African representation, Iyanu is set to captivate audiences and elevate African animation on the global stage. As the series makes its grand debut, viewers can look forward to an inspiring tale of adventure, identity, and heroism, crafted with cultural depth and artistic brilliance.
