Must-Watch Trailer: Animated Series Iyanu Debuts in Africa Exclusively on Showmax on 13 June

Showmax, in partnership with Lion Forge Entertainment, has announced that the highly anticipated animated series Iyanu will premiere in Africa on 13 June 2025. In addition, the African streaming platform has released the official trailer, offering audiences a first look at the captivating story inspired by Nigerian culture and mythology. The entire first season will be available for binge-watching across 44 African countries exclusively on Showmax.

A Story Rooted in Nigerian Mythology

Adapted from Iyanu: Child of Wonder, the graphic novel series by Roye Okupe, the show is helmed by Okupe himself, who serves as creator, executive producer, and showrunner. The original comics, published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics—known for The Umbrella Academy and Hellboy—have received critical acclaim for their rich storytelling and vibrant depiction of African lore.

Produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, a leading Black-owned animation studio in North America, Iyanu draws deeply from Nigerian culture, music, and mythology. The series follows Iyanu, a courageous young orphan living in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland. While studying history and ancient arts, she dreams of an ordinary life—until a looming threat awakens divine powers not seen since the legendary Age of Wonders. With newfound friends Biyi and Toye, along with a mystical leopard named Ekun, Iyanu embarks on a quest to uncover the source of this evil, setting her on a path to fulfill her true destiny.

A Groundbreaking Moment for African Animation

“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.”

Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, expressed excitement about the upcoming premiere:

“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.”

David Steward II, CEO and Founder of Lion Forge Entertainment, echoed this sentiment:

An All-African Cast Bringing Iyanu to Life

Adding to its authenticity, Iyanu features an all-African voice cast, including:

• Serah Johnson as Iyanu, the brave protagonist
• Okey Jude as Biyi, Iyanu’s carefree adventurer friend
• Samuel Kugbiyi as Toye, Iyanu’s bookworm companion
• Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Olori
• Blossom Chukwujekwu as Kanfo, Toye’s father
• Stella Damasus as Sewa
• Shaffy Bello as Emi – The One Mother
• Ike Ononye as Elder Alapani

A Global Debut with a Strong African Presence

While Iyanu is set to make its African debut on Showmax in June, the series will first premiere in the U.S. on Cartoon Network on 5 April 2025 at 9:30 AM ET/PT, with streaming on Max the following day. The UK and Ireland will also get to experience the adventure later this summer through ITVX.

The series boasts an impressive lineup of executive producers, including David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands, and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment; Roye Okupe of YouNeek Studios; Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital; Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group; and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod.

With its groundbreaking animation, rich storytelling, and deep cultural roots, Iyanu is set to become a must-watch series that will captivate audiences across Africa and beyond. Mark your calendars—Iyanu arrives on Showmax on 13 June 2025!