"Iyanu" is a fantastic animated series paying homage to Nigerian culture
- The Real Perspectives
- Apr 7
- 2 min read
Updated: May 16
Reel Perspectives
April 7, 2025
"Iyanu" is the groundbreaking animated superhero series that premiered on Cartoon Network on April 5, followed by Max on April 6, premiering in 44 countries worldwide. The series follows Iyanu, a teenage orphan in the magical land of Yorubaland, who discovers she has powers not seen since the "age of wonders." Alongside her friends Biyi and Toye, she embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about the evil threatening her homeland and to learn more about her own mysterious past.
Created by award-winning Nigerian creator and filmmaker Roye Okupe and based on Okupe and Godwin Akpan's graphic novel series, Iyanu: Child of Wonder, published by Unique Studios and Dark Horse Comics, the series is produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, with showrunner Brandon Easton (Marvel's Agent Carter).
Inspired by Nigerian culture, music, and mythology, the official synopsis reveals that the animated series follows a teenage orphan girl, Iyanu, who spends her days studying history and ancient arts but yearns for a normal life. One day, responding to danger, she unknowingly triggers her divine powers, the likes of which have not been seen since the Age of Wonders. With newly discovered superpowers, Iyanu joins forces with two other teenagers, Biyi and Toye, as they embark on a remarkable journey to discover the truth about the evil lurking in her homeland. Throughout her adventure, she'll uncover the truth about her past, her parents, and her ultimate destiny to save the world.
The all-Nigerian voice cast includes:
Iyanu (voiced by Serah Johnson)
Biyi (voiced by Okey Jude)
Toye (voiced by Samuel Kugbiyi)
Olori (voiced by Adesua Etomi-Wellington)
Kanfo (voiced by Blossom Chukwujekwu)
Sewa (voiced by Stella Damasus)
Emi - The One Mother (voiced by Shaffy Bello)
Elder Alapani (voiced by Ike Ononye)
The Fallen One (voiced by Lord Frank)
Chancellor Nuro (voiced by Femi Sowooli)
Omolola (voiced by Rashidat Fawehinmi Raji)
Teju (voiced by Iheanetu Edith Chidinma)
Siju (voiced by Tolulope Kolade)
Abbey (voiced by King E Afemikhe)
Iyanu is a wonderful representation of Nigerian culture, deeply rooted in authenticity, featuring rich, vibrant colors with layered storytelling and cultural animation. The series inspires little girls everywhere, encouraging them to recognize their unlimited potential and fully embrace who they are and who they are destined to become. It is an inspiring journey of self-discovery set against the rich tapestry of cultural identity, blending magical elements with an educational viewing experience. This wonderful series serves as an incredible beacon of representation that younger audiences and adults will enjoy.
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