Cartoon Network and MAX announce the new cast list for the upcoming animated series adapted from award-winning Nigerian creator and producer, Roye Okupe’s Graphic Novel series, Iyanu: Child of Wonder.
Both companies have confirmed that the new series will have an All-Nigerian Voice Cast, the series being pushed back to 2025. Listed below are the new voice cast members:
Iyanu– Serah Johnson (Moji)
Iyanu is a young orphan with no recollection of her past. As a young warrior-in-training, Iyanu spends her days studying Yoruba 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 days of the Divine Ones. Iyanu’s trinity of powers makes her the child of prophecy, destined to unite all of Yorubaland, defeat the ancient curse, and bring back the Age Of Wonders.
Iyanu Introduction
Toye– Samuel Kugbiyi
Toye grew up inside the walled City of Elu with abundance all around him. However, he was always expected to follow in his father Kanfo’s footsteps and become a military leader. But Toye is no fighter and prefers engineering. When he runs away he finds Iyanu, Biyi, and the biggest leopard he’s ever seen named Ekun.
Toye Introduction
Biyi– Okey Jude (Hotel Labamba, The Governor’s Daughter)
Biyi is an outcast from the Riverlands and has lived on his own outside the walled city of Elu for a while, In fact, Biyi and Iyanu actually don’t really get along at first, but her destiny is connected to his and their journey creates a lasting friendship.
Biyi Introduction
Sewa– Stella Damasus (Gone)
Olori– Adesua Etomi-Wellington (King of Boys, Gangs of Lagos)
Olori is a High Priestess of the Agoni, (keepers of the history and culture of the Walled City of Elu). She takes Iyanu under her wing as her apprentice to protect her from danger. A mentor and mother figure to Iyanu, Olori is also a fierce warrior, versed in the magical arts of the Divine Ones.
Olori Introduction
Elder Alapani– Ike Ononye (Rogue, Crazy Fun in Serbia, Doc Martin)
Kanfo– Blossom Chukwujeku (Falling, Stolen Lives)
Emi– Shaffy Bello (The Score, Battleground)
The series is slated for release in the U.S. on Cartoon Network and Max in 2025 and has a 26-episode, two-season order. For staff, we have Brandon Easton (Thundercats, Marvel’s Agent Carter, Transformers: War for Cybertron Trilogy) as Head Writer, and Roye Okupe serving as the executive producer, writer, and director on multiple episodes. Executive producers are David Steward II and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment, Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group, and Doug Schwalbe. Roye Okupe serves as the executive producer, writer, and director on multiple episodes. Executive producers are David Steward II and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment, Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group, and Doug Schwalbe. The project was financed and overseen by Black-owned animation studio Lion Forge Entertainment.
Iyanu is adapted from the graphic novel series published by Dark Horse Comics and YouNeek Studios titled Iyanu: Child of Wonder, which is heavily influenced by the Yoruba people of Nigeria.
“Iyanu” is a superhero tale set in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland, which draws from Nigerian culture, music and mythology. The series follows Iyanu, a teenage orphan who spends her days studying Yoruba 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 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.
Source: Animation Magazine, Lion Forge Entertainment
Thanks for reading! If you have any suggestions, news tips, or questions, email them to: webmaster@bigrednerd.com.
Red's Nerd Den 