Iyanu is promoting New York Comic Con attendees and fans. This trailer was first shown at the panel “IYANU: Lion Forge Brings African Fantasy to Cartoon Network.” And fans won’t have to wait long to immerse themselves in Iyanu’s magical story. The show is marked for a Spring 2025 release date.
Lion Forge Entertainment is producing an animated series based on Roye Okupe’s popular graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder (YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comic). Okupe also serves as executive producer and showrunner. Paula Gammon Wilson will serve as voice cast and casting director, Darnell Johnson will serve as episode director, and Brandon Easton will serve as story editor and writer. All four attended a panel discussion Saturday at NYCC ‘2419 to talk about the series and introduce the trailer.
Iyanu is based on Nigerian culture, music and mythology. You can read the full synopsis below.
Deeply drawn into the rich tapestry of the Yoruba people, this animated series follows Iyanu, an orphaned teenage girl who longs for a normal life while spending her days studying history and ancient art. One day, in response to danger, she unconsciously activates divine powers, such powers not seen since the Age of Wonders. Armed with newfound superpowers, Iyanu joins forces with two other teenagers, Biyi and Toy, and embarks on a remarkable journey to discover the truth about the evil that lurks in their homeland. Through her adventures, she uncovers the truth about her past, her parents, and her ultimate destiny to save the world.
Selah Johnson voices the title character. Oakie Jude voices Iyanu’s carefree adventurer friend Biyi, and Samuel Kugbiyi voices Iyanu’s bookworm companion Toy. Adesua Etomi-Wellington will be the voice of Olori, and Blossom Chukwujeku will be the voice of Toy’s father Kanfo. Stella Damasus voices Sewa, and rounding out the cast are Shafie Bello as Emi (a single mother) and Ike Ononye as the voice of Elder Alapani.
Iyanu is scheduled to premiere on Cartoon Network and Max in spring 2025 for U.S. audiences and stream exclusively on ShowMax in 44 African countries.
Stay tuned for more coverage of NYCC ’24 from The Beat.
Something like this:
Like loading…
