The animated superhero series Iyanu is going to make its debut in the UK on July 3rd via ITVX with Iyanu in the magical kingdom in Yorubaland. We have spoken about how rich the history and culture is in this series and we are excited for other parts of the world to see this adventure. We also know that Cartoon Network and Max have greenlit another season for the show and two animated movies as well. We are hopeful that these will also make their way to other countries as well.
Lion Forge Entertainment’s Iyanu Makes UK Debut on ITVX July 3rd
Complete First Season Available to Stream
Series Created by Award-Winning Nigerian Filmmaker, Roye Okupe and Produced by Lion Forge Entertainment
Lion Forge Entertainment’s hit superhero animated series Iyanu will debut July 3rd on ITVX for UK and Northern Ireland audiences, with all 10 episodes of season one available at launch.
The series UK debut on ITVX continues Iyanu’s global breakout first season, which captivated young audiences as a cross-platform sensation on Max and Cartoon Network in the U.S., ranking as the number one kids series on Cartoon Network and a Top 10 Kids & Family series on Max. The success has already led to Cartoon Network and Max greenlighting season 2 and two feature films.
The series follows Iyanu, a young orphan living in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland. While studying history and ancient arts, she yearns for a normal life—until a looming threat awakens divine powers not seen since the legendary Age of Wonders. Accompanied by newfound friends Biyi, Toye, and a magical leopard named Ekun, Iyanu sets out to uncover the source of this evil, unlocking her destiny along the way.
Iyanu is adapted from creator Roye Okupe’s graphic novel series “Iyanu: Child of Wonder”, published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics. Lion Forge Entertainment, the Emmy®-winning company behind Oscar®-winning Hair Love, produces the series.
Lion Forge Entertainment Founder and CEO David Steward II says, “Iyanu has already captured the imagination of audiences in the U.S., and we’re excited to build on that momentum with ITVX. This premiere marks a major step in the franchise’s global journey and ITV has been an incredible partner in helping us bring this culturally rich, action-packed story to even more viewers. We’re confident Iyanu will connect deeply with UK audiences looking for bold, original storytelling.”
Darren Nartey, Senior Acquisitions Manager: Films & Kids added, ‘Iyanu will make a wonderful addition to ITVX. It’s a powerful series which we’re sure will capture audiences both young and old.
Okupe, who serves as series creator, EP and showrunner, says, “Iyanu is a story deeply rooted in Yoruba history, culture, and mythology—and that cultural authenticity is something we’re incredibly proud of. But as I always say, Iyanu is for everyone: kids, adults, and families from all walks of life. That’s why I’m so excited about this partnership with ITVX. I can’t wait for audiences in the UK to experience the magic and wonder of Iyanu. A series that’s already capturing hearts around the world.”
Award-winner Serah Johnson leads the all-African voice cast as Iyanu, alongside award-winning Nollywood stars Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Blossom Chukwujekwu, and Shaffy Bello from Netflix hit The Black Book.
Story editor Brandon Easton (Transformers: War for Cybertron; Marvel’s Agent Carter) headed the Iyanu writers’ room, which also featured Emmy winner Kerri Grant (Doc McStuffins; Ada Twist, Scientist).
Iyanu is executive produced by David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands and Matt Heath of 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.
Iyanu makes its UK debut on ITVX July 3rd, following its launch on Showmax across 44 African countries June 13.