Lion Forge Entertainment has announced the release of the animated series ‘Iyanu,’ based on Roye Okupe’s graphic novel ‘Iyanu: Child of Wonder,’ in 2025.
The series will be available on Showmax in 44 African countries and will also air in the U.S. on Cartoon Network and Max.
Set in the mystical kingdom of Yorubaland, ‘Iyanu‘ follows an orphan who must discover her newfound powers to save her people from an ancient curse.
Adapted from Okupe’s graphic novel published by Dark Horse Comics, the series promises a fresh and engaging narrative. Dark Horse Comics is known for popular titles such as ‘The Umbrella Academy’ and ‘Hellboy.’
The series features an all-African voice cast led by award-winning actress Serah Johnson as Iyanu. Joining her are AMAA winner Adesua Etomi-Wellington, three-time AMAA nominee Stella Damasus, multi-award-winner Blossom Chukwujekwu, and Shaffy Bello from ‘The Black Book.’ Produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, the Emmy-winning studio behind ‘Hair Love,’ ‘Iyanu’ is set to captivate audiences with its rich cultural narrative and stunning animation.
With its launch on Showmax and prominent U.S. networks, ‘Iyanu’ aims to be a milestone in African animation, blending cultural heritage and universal superhero appeal.
Roye Okupe, creator of ‘Iyanu,’ expressed his excitement about the series’ launch on Showmax. “I grew up watching superhero stories on DStv in Lagos, Nigeria. It’s amazing that Showmax will introduce Nigerian children to Iyanu, a superhero who looks and sounds like them,” Okupe said.
Lion Forge Entertainment Founder and CEO David Steward II highlighted the series’ African roots. “Iyanu is for young audiences worldwide, but its heart is in Africa. We’re proud to stream Iyanu in 44 African countries, inspiring African children with a superhero shaped around their world.”
Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels for West Africa at MultiChoice, shared her enthusiasm. “African animation is gaining recognition locally and internationally. MultiChoice is proud to bring Iyanu’s story, weaving Nigerian culture with great entertainment, to Showmax customers across Africa.”
The series’ writers’ room was led by story editor Brandon Easton, known for ‘Transformers: War for Cybertron’ and ‘Marvel’s Agent Carter.’ The team also included Emmy winner Kerri Grant of ‘Doc McStuffins’ and ‘Ada Twist, Scientist.’
Executive producers for the show are 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.
