Showmax partners with Lion Forge Entertainment to premiere *Iyanu*, a Nigerian animated series inspired by Yoruba mythology, across 44 African countries

Showmax, the leading online movie streaming platform, has announced a major partnership with **Lion Forge Entertainment** to premiere *Iyanu*, a Nigerian animated series, across **44 African countries**.

The series, inspired by Nigerian culture and mythology, is set to debut on **June 13**, with the entire first season available for binge-watching.

Dr Busola Tejumola, **Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa**, revealed the news in Lagos, stating that Showmax has also released an official trailer to give audiences a glimpse into the epic adventure.

*”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,”* Tejumola said.

The all-African **voice cast** features talented actors, including **Serah Johnson** as Iyanu, **Okey Jude** as Biyi, **Samuel Kugbiyi** as Toye, **Adesua Etomi-Wellington** as Olori, **Blossom Chukwujekwu** as Kanfo, **Stella Damasus** as Sewa, **Shaffy Bello** as Emi, and **Ike Ononye** as Elder Alapani.

*Iyanu*: A Groundbreaking Nigerian Animation

The series is an adaptation of *Iyanu: Child of Wonder*, a graphic novel by **Roye Okupe**, published by **YouNeek Studios** and **Dark Horse Comics**. Okupe, who was born and raised in Nigeria, serves as the **creator, executive producer, and showrunner**.

Produced by **Lion Forge Entertainment**, a **Black-owned** North American animation studio, *Iyanu* will also premiere in the **UK and Ireland** on **ITVX** this summer.

The executive production team includes **David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands, Matt Heath, Erica Dupuis, Ryan Haidarian**, and **Doug Schwalbe**.

David Steward II, **CEO of Lion Forge Entertainment**, expressed his excitement about the project, highlighting the dedication of Roye Okupe and the production team.

*”We’re thrilled to see Iyanu debut on Cartoon Network, Max, and Showmax soon. This series marks a significant step in our mission to tell culturally rich stories that connect with audiences worldwide,”* he said.

A Story Rooted in Yoruba Mythology

Inspired by **Yoruba culture, music, and mythology**, *Iyanu* follows the journey of a courageous orphan in the magical kingdom of **Yorubaland**.

While studying history and ancient arts, she longs for a normal life—until an **imminent threat** awakens divine powers that have remained dormant for centuries.

Alongside her friends **Biyi** and **Toye**, and a mystical leopard named **Ekun**, Iyanu embarks on a quest to uncover the **source of the looming evil**.

As she battles dark forces, she unravels the **mysteries of her past** and discovers her true **destiny**.