Online movie streaming platform, Showmax, says it has partnered with Lion Forge Entertainment, to premiere a Nigerian animated series titled “Iyanu” in 44 African countries.
Dr Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels West Africa, disclosed this in a statement, on Tuesday in Lagos.
Tejumola said the series, set to premiere on June 13, would have the entire first season available to binge across these African countries.
She said Showmax had also released the official trailer of the series, giving audiences a glimpse into the captivating story based on Nigerian culture and mythology.
“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.
“The talented all-African Iyanu voice cast includes Serah Johnson as Iyanu; Okey Jude as Biyi, Iyanu’s carefree adventurer friend; Samuel Kugbiyi as Toye, Iyanu’s bookworm companion.
“Also, Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Olori; Blossom Chukwujekwu as Kanfo, Toye’s father; Stella Damasus as Sewa; Shaffy Bello as Emi, the One Mother; and Ike Ononye as Elder Alapani,” she said.
Tejumola noted that the series was adapted from Roye Okupe’s graphic novel series, “Iyanu: Child of Wonder”, published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics.
She said the show was helmed by Okupe, who was born and raised in Nigeria and now served as creator, executive producer and showrunner.
She said the series was produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, a Black-owned animation studio in North America.
“Showcasing Iyanu’s global reach, the series will first premiere in the U.S. on Cartoon Network on April 5 at 9.30 a.m. ET/PT and stream on Max the next day.
“ITVX will also debut the series in the UK and Ireland this summer.
“The show’s executive producers are 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” she said.
Steward II, Chief Executive Officer of Lion Forge Entertainment, said: “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.”
Drawing on Nigerian culture, music, and mythology, the animated series follows Iyanu, a brave 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.
NAN
