“Iyanu: Child of Wonder” – The animated series that brings African magic to Cartoon Network and Max

A new protagonist is about to arrive who is destined to leave her mark on the world of animation. Her name is Iyanu, and is the heroine of the eponymous Afro-fantasy animated series that will officially debut on Cartoon Network and Max, bringing with it a wave of magic, adventure and culture deeply rooted in the traditions of West Africa. It is not just another series for kids: it is a real event, ready to shake up the landscape of international animated productions.

The story revolves around Iyanu, an orphaned girl who lives in a land inspired by Yoruba mythology, called Yorubaland. Her life changes radically when she discovers that she possesses mystical powers that awaken ancient and powerful forces. But her gift is not accidental: it is linked to a greater destiny, to a forgotten prophecy and to an evil that threatens to rise again. Thus begins an epic journey to discover the truth about herself, her origins and the role she must play to save her world.

The series stands out for its visually rich and fascinating setting, where technology and spirituality intertwine in breathtaking landscapes and architecture inspired by African art. The characters - from Iyanu to his traveling companions, including the courageous Biyi and the sagacious Toye - are drawn with depth, each bearing a part of the great narrative mosaic. And at the center, always, is the figure of Iyanu: young, strong, curious, balanced between fragility and courage.

But "Iyanu” is not only adventure and magic. It is also a celebration of African culture in a new, fresh form, designed for a global audience but deeply respectful of its roots. A story that speaks of identity, responsibility and hope. The series, produced by Lion Forge Animation, is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Roye Okupe, and continues the mission of giving space to voices and stories that have been left on the margins for too long.

From a technical point of view, the animation is fluid and dynamic, with a style that recalls the original comic but opens to modern and international influences. The action is well choreographed, the music evocative, and the dubbing (already appreciated in the released trailers) manages to convey the epic and at the same time human tone of the narration.

With its arrival on Max and Cartoon Network, Iyanu is poised to be not only one of the most anticipated series of the year, but also a turning point: a symbol of how animation can evolve, embracing new imageries and giving voice to heroes who speak to everyone's heart. And this time, the hero has the face - and the strength - of a black girl, who is preparing to rewrite the fate of her world... and maybe even ours.

“Iyanu: Child of Wonder” – An Epic Journey from African Roots to the Global Animation Scene

When the animated adaptation of the graphic novel was announced in July 2022 Iyanu: Child of Wonder, it was clear from the start that this was not just any project. It was a series deeply rooted in Nigeria's Yoruba culture, developed by a creative team that not only knows that reality, but lives it and tells it with authenticity and pride. Two years later, Iyanu has become a reality: a powerful example of how animation can be a vehicle for cultural identity, representation and visual innovation.

The production is handled by Lion Forge Animation, an independent African-American studio already known for its attention to inclusive content. Supervised by Saxton Moore, with Roye Okupe – author of the graphic novel – directly involved in the writing and direction of several episodes, the project soon ended up in the spotlight for the commitment with which it addresses its narrative roots. The goal? To bring to the screen a fantastic world, yes, but one that speaks the language of Africa and celebrates its spiritual, aesthetic and musical richness.

The production has focused on a large and diverse creative team from the beginning: Brandon Easton leads the writers' room, while among the executive producers we find names such as David Steward II and Erica Dupuis, together with Okupe himself. The project was immediately defined as a response to the emergence of Africa as a protagonist in the global streaming landscape, alongside titles such as Super Sema o Blood & Water. And it’s not just about content, it’s also about method: Lion Forge has partnered with Black Women Animate Studios to ensure a multi-ethnic and inclusive production team from the very beginning.

The style of the series is deliberately inspired by great classics of contemporary animation, such as Avatar: The Last Airbender e The Legend of Korra, but with a visual language all its own. The animation quality is close to anime standards, with particular attention to cultural details: the landscapes, costumes, music and even the narrative construction are steeped in Nigerian mythology and folklore. Saxton Moore described Iyanu as “an epic, ongoing tale,” while David Steward described the series as “a deep, layered universe” that perfectly reflects the studio’s mission.

In 2024, a first trailer was released at San Diego Comic-Con to much acclaim. Shortly after, it was announced that the film would feature an all-African voice cast, with the likes of Serah Johnson, Adesua Etomi-Wellington, and Shaffy Bello, further underscoring the commitment to authentic representation.

The series officially launched in the United States on April 5, 2025 on Cartoon Network, with streaming availability on Max the following day. International distribution will follow, with Showmax airing the series in Sub-Saharan Africa starting June 13, and in the United Kingdom it will arrive on ITVX in summer 2025.

With its bold approach, its close-knit cast and its powerful aesthetic, Iyanu presents itself not only as an animated series for children aged 6 to 11, but as a true bridge between generations, cultures and continents. A declaration of intent: Africa is not only a source of inspiration, but an active and creative protagonist in the universe of global animation. And this is only the dawn of its splendor.