Iyanu the Animated Series, Premieres in Africa on June 13 2025

Showmax, in collaboration with Lion Forge Entertainment, is about to take you on an exhilarating ride with the much-anticipated animated series Iyanu, premiering on June 13, 2025.

The streaming service just dropped the official trailer, giving us a sneak peek into a world of magic, adventure, and Nigerian culture. Iyanu is based on the captivating graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder by Roye Okupe, published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics (yes, the same powerhouse behind The Umbrella Academy and Hellboy). Okupe isn’t just the writer, he’s the creator, executive producer, and showrunner too.

But it’s not just about the story; it’s a ground-breaking partnership with Lion Forge Entertainment, a renowned Black-owned animation studio. Together, they’re bringing the rich and vibrant Nigerian heritage to life in a way you’ve never seen before.

Set in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland, Iyanu tells the story of a young orphan named Iyanu, who is studying history and the ancient arts while secretly wishing for a normal life. Little does she know, a looming dark force is awakening, and it’s up to her to stop it. What makes it even more thrilling? Iyanu possesses divine powers that haven’t been seen since the legendary Age of Wonders. Alongside her new friends—Biyi, Toye, and a magical leopard named Ekun—she embarks on an epic quest to uncover the source of this evil and unlock her true destiny.

Iyanu takes pride in its all-African voice cast, featuring some seriously talented actors. Serah Johnson stars as Iyanu, while Okey Jude brings to life Biyi, the adventurous friend who’s always ready for a thrill. Samuel Kugbiyi plays Toye, the brainy sidekick with a passion for books, and Adesua Etomi-Wellington lends her voice to Olori. Also making appearances are Blossom Chukwujekwu as Kanfo, Toye’s father, Shaffy Bello as Emi – The One Mother, and Ike Ononye as Elder Alapani. With such an incredible lineup, you’re in for a treat!

Iyanu is going global! The series will first debut in the U.S. on Cartoon Network on April 5, 2025, at 9:30 AM ET/PT, followed by streaming on Max the next day. And for fans in the UK and Ireland, ITVX will be showing the series this summer, so everyone can join the journey!

Dr. Busola Tejumola, executive head of content and channels for West Africa at Showmax, shared her excitement, saying, “Iyanu brings Nigerian culture and mythology to life in an exciting and authentic way. We are proud to be the home of its African premiere and can’t wait for audiences across the continent to experience this epic adventure on Showmax.”

Lion Forge Entertainment’s CEO and Founder, David Steward II, also weighed in, “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.”

Watch the trailer below:

Main Image: Showmax

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