A groundbreaking moment in animation is on the horizon as “Iyanu,” an epic superhero series steeped in Nigerian culture and Yoruba mythology, prepares to make its highly anticipated debut. Created by award-winning Nigerian filmmaker Roye Okupe, the series is an adaptation of his acclaimed graphic novel “Iyanu: Child of Wonder,” published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics. With its premiere scheduled for April 5, 2025, on Cartoon Network in the United States, followed by a streaming release on Max the next day, “Iyanu” promises to bring a fresh, culturally rich narrative to audiences worldwide.
The series follows the journey of Iyanu, a teenage orphan voiced by Serah Johnson, living in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland. A student of history and ancient arts, Iyanu yearns for a normal life—until a looming threat awakens divine powers within her, unseen since the legendary Age of Wonders. Joined by her friends Biyi (Okey Jude) and Toye (Samuel Kugbiyi), along with a mystical leopard named Ekun, Iyanu embarks on a quest to uncover the source of an ancient evil threatening her homeland, unlocking her destiny as a protector of humanity.
Roye Okupe, who serves as creator, executive producer, and showrunner, has expressed his excitement about sharing this authentic Nigerian story with the world. “‘Iyanu’ is a love letter to Nigerian culture, music, and mythology,” Okupe said in a recent statement. “I grew up watching superhero stories in Lagos, and now, to bring a superhero who looks and sounds like us to children across Africa and beyond—it’s a dream come true.” His vision is bolstered by a powerhouse production team, including David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands, and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment, alongside Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group, and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod.
The series boasts an all-Nigerian voice cast, a landmark achievement that underscores its commitment to authenticity. Alongside Johnson, the ensemble includes Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Olori, Blossom Chukwujekwu as Kanfo, Stella Damasus as Sewa, Shaffy Bello as Emi – The One Mother, and Ike Ononye as Elder Alapani, among others. Adding to the cultural resonance, Afropop star Yemi Alade has recorded the series’ theme song, a collaboration with lead composer Femi Agunbiade and the creative teams at Lion Forge Entertainment and Alcon Sleeping Giant.
“Iyanu” will not only premiere in the U.S. but also reach audiences across 44 African countries via Showmax starting June 13, 2025, and in the UK and Ireland on ITVX this summer. This global rollout reflects the series’ universal appeal, blending anime-inspired action with the vibrant storytelling traditions of Yorubaland. Michael Ouweleen, President of Cartoon Network and Adult Swim, praised the project’s ambition: “It has been a hero’s journey for Roye and the team to bring this stunning series to life. This April, we all get to enter a unique world filled with magic, mysterious enemies, and divine powers.”
The trailer, released earlier this week, offers a glimpse into the lush landscapes of Yorubaland and the heart-pounding action awaiting viewers. It showcases Iyanu’s courage as she confronts a charging rhino, hinting at the trials she’ll face as the chosen one. Critics and fans alike have lauded the series for its visual splendor and narrative depth, with many calling it a “melancholic masterpiece” that captures the essence of growth, discovery, and resilience.
As “Iyanu” prepares to take flight, it stands as a testament to the power of diverse storytelling in animation. For Okupe and his team, this is more than a series—it’s a celebration of heritage, a bridge to global audiences, and a bold step forward for African representation in media. Mark your calendars for April 5, 2025, when “Iyanu” invites the world to witness a new kind of superhero saga.
