Iyanu's Journey: The Next Chapter at SDCC

 

Iyanu is not only a great TV series. They're making movies as well! Here's all the latest news. Don't forget to check out the movie trailer! 

 

 

Cartoon Network and HBO Max Set Premiere Date for 

Iyanu: The Age of Wonders Movie at San Diego Comic-Con

Teaser trailer and poster revealed at SDCC, plus early look at Season 2 storyline and visuals

 

 

At “Iyanu’s Journey: The Next Chapter” panel at San Diego Comic-Con, Cartoon Network, HBO Max, and Lion Forge Entertainment revealed the next evolution of their breakout hit Iyanu.

Building on the show’s first-season success across Cartoon Network and HBO Max, the partners announced that Iyanu: The Age of Wonders — the first in a pair of upcoming animated feature films — will premiere Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. ET/PT.

Fans also got a first look at the official teaser trailer, poster, and never-before-seen stills from Season 2, currently in production.

About the Film: Iyanu: The Age of Wonders



Set 500 years before the rise of Iyanu, The Age of Wonders transports viewers to Yorubaland at the height of its magical civilization. When Meje — the embodiment of the seven deadly sins — emerges, young warriors Dara and Ishe must stop the coming Age of Darkness. Their only hope lies with the Divine Ones, legendary beings who once walked the earth and upheld the balance between light and shadow.

The film stars an all-African voice cast, including:

Shaffy Bello as Emi – The One Mother

Babajide Oyekunle as Joba – The First Father

Ike Ononye as Ishe

Sisan Victor-Woko as Dara

Serah Johnson as Iyanu

Okey Jude as Biyi

Samuel Kugbiyi as Toye

Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Olori

The film was co-written by Brandon Easton (series story editor) and Roye Okupe, who also directed and serves as the franchise’s creator and showrunner.

 

Here's the trailer for the upcoming movie: Iyanu: The Age of Wonders

 

(It looks terrific!)

 

 

Also Revealed: A Glimpse at Iyanu Season 2

Season 2, coming in 2026, finds Iyanu facing a powerful new enemy as tensions rise across Yorubaland. With ancient magic reawakening, the fight for balance has only just begun.

The show’s executive producers include David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment, Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod, and Roye Okupe, who also serves as series creator and showrunner.

The Iyanu series and films are based on Iyanu: Child of Wonder by Roye Okupe, published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics.

Executive producers include:

David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands, Matt Heath (Lion Forge Entertainment);

Erica Dupuis (Impact X Capital);

Ryan Haidarian (Forefront Media Group);

Doug Schwalbe (Superprod);

and Roye Okupe, who also serves as creator and showrunner.

HBO Max is the premier global streaming platform from Warner Bros. Discovery that delivers the most unique and captivating stories, ranging from the highest quality in scripted programming, movies, documentaries, true crime, adult animation, and live sports and news (where available). HBO Max is the destination for prestigious entertainment brands such as HBO Max Warner Bros., HBO Max Originals, DC, Harry Potter, as well as iconic shows like Friends and The Big Bang Theory, all in one place.

Cartoon Network is one of the most loved global animated networks. Widely seen by fans all over the world as the best in animation, Cartoon Network combines a rich legacy of characters and a deep roster of creatives with unique brands of storytelling. Showcasing original content from across Cartoon Network Studios, Warner Bros. Animation, Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe, and beyond, Cartoon Network programming includes “Craig of the Creek,” “Teen Titans Go!,” “We Baby Bears,” “Tiny Toons Looniversity,” and “The Heroic Quest of the Valiant Prince Ivandoe.” Cartoon Network's content commitment appeals to the complete spectrum of kids and families including preschoolers with “Batwheels,” “Bugs Bunny Builders,” and more on Cartoonito, and blockbuster hits on the ultimate family destination, ACME Night. 

About Lion Forge Entertainment

Lion Forge Entertainment (LFE), one of the few Black-owned entertainment studios of scale in North America, was founded in 2019 by David Steward II to amplify authentic, diverse voices in both animated and live-action content. With "Diverse Stories, Authentically Told" as its driving mission, LFE has won an Academy Award for Hair Love and multiple Emmy® awards. LFE is part of Polarity, a media and sports-focused firm whose portfolio includes publishers Oni-Lion Forge Publishing Group and Magnetic Press within the broader Steward Family holdings, which range from technology, sports, and music among other interests. LFE is led by President and CCO Stephanie Sperber, an accomplished and award-winning media executive and franchise builder in the kids and family space.

About Impact X

Impact X Capital is a double bottom line venture capital firm founded to support diverse and underrepresented talent across digital technology, media, and entertainment. With a bold focus on elevating storytellers from the African diaspora, Impact X Studio champions groundbreaking content that gives creative power directly to creators of color. Founded by an influential team that includes Sir Lenny Henry and Ursula Burns, Impact X is driving a new era of inclusive innovation and authentic storytelling on the world stage.

About USA Superprod

Superprod US is the New York and LA based subsidiary of the SUPERPROD Group,a technological leader who collaborates with top-tier talent and partners to produce award-winning content for US and international markets from cutting-edge animation studios in Paris, Angoulême, Milan, and Luxembourg and a creative development office in London. Its animated feature productions have been nominated for multiple Academy Awards, and have been selected for major film festivals including Cannes, Toronto, Sundance and Annecy.

SUPERPROD Group has produced films and series, both live action and animation, for Netflix, HBO Max, Warner Bros Animation, Universal Pictures, Nickelodeon, Canal Plus, France Télévisions, TF1, M6, SND, BBC, RAI, and ARD. Recent productions include the animated series Batwheels, Lego Friends, Hello Kitty, Spirit Rangers, and Paddington, the film Mr Blake at your service starring John Malkovich, as well as the prime-time action series Panda for TF1 and musical teen sitcom Home Sweet Rome for BBC, ARD, Rai, Family Channel and HBO Max.

About Forefront Media Group

Forefront Media Group is a South Africa- and Austria-based film and television company specializing in development, production, finance, and distribution. Founded in 2011, Forefront has brought award-winning African and international stories to global audiences. With offices in Johannesburg and Vienna, the company bridges continents to deliver bold, cross-cultural storytelling.

 

Iyanu on Social Media

Stay connected with Iyanu. Follow us for exclusive content, cast updates, and behind-the-scenes insights:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Lion Forge on Social Media

Explore Lion Forge's world of diverse storytelling. Follow us on social media for the latest updates on all our projects, including Iyanu.

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Youtube
• Twitter
• LinkedIn

 

 

Thanks to Kosi Harris PR and Lion Forge Entertainment for sharing this announcement with us.

Iyanu: Season Two & Feature-Length Films

 

Have you been watching Iyanu? These are exciting times for the new hit TV series! Congratulations to Lion Forge Entertainment, YouNeek Studios, and everyone involved in crafting the show's success! Here's all the details on the future of this expanding media franchise:

 

Cartoon Network and Max Greenlight

Season Two of Iyanu and Two Feature-Length Films

 

Series Created by Award-Winning Nigerian Filmmaker, Roye Okupe and Produced by Lion Forge Entertainment

 

Following the breakout first season that captivated young audiences and became a cross-platform sensation, it was revealed today that season two of Lion Forge Entertainment’s Iyanu, the epic animated fantasy series inspired by Nigerian mythology, along with two feature films expanding its universe, have been greenlit by Cartoon Network and Max.

 

 

Based on the graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder by Roye Okupe, and produced by Lion Forge Entertainment,Iyanu follows a teenage orphan who discovers her divine powers and her destiny to save the ancient kingdom of Yorubaland.

 

 

 

“We’re incredibly inspired by the response to ‘Iyanu’ and the connection it has made with audiences,” said David Steward II, CEO of Lion Forge Entertainment. “The opportunity to expand this world with a second season and two feature films is a testament to the power of meaningful storytelling and innovative creative collaboration. We’re grateful for the continued support of our partners at Cartoon Network and Max, and it’s been a lot of fun working with Roye to bring Iyanu to life and build the franchise.”

 

“This is a huge win for IYANU, Lion Forge Entertainment and YouNeek Studios fans around the world. The support for our show has been nothing short of humbling—and because of that incredible response, we now get to bring the next chapter of Iyanu’s story to life. I’m thrilled to continue expanding the world of IYANU and the YouNeek YouNiverse, and to share this journey with audiences across the globe. This is just the beginning,” said Okupe.

 

 

 

Season two will return with 10 new episodes where we’ll see Iyanu continue to master her burgeoning powers as she finds herself in the midst of a fierce conflict between Elu and the People of the Deep, led by a new formidable opponent. With various factions of Yorubaland vying for powerful divine artifacts that have reemerged, Iyanu strives to find a way to end the war and restore peace. As Team Chosen reunites and tensions rise between old allies and foes, Iyanu must confront even more powerful threats from the Age of Wonders—including secrets buried deep within her own past.

 

In addition to the highly anticipated second season, Iyanu is expanding further with two feature-length films now in production for the network and streaming platforms. The first animated film, titled The Age of Wonders, is set to be released later this year. It will transport viewers 500 years before Iyanu’s rise, taking them to a thriving Yorubaland at the peak of its magical civilization. When the embodiment of the seven deadly sins threatens the world, Iyanu’s predecessors join forces with the Divine Ones to prevent the Age of Darkness.

 

 

 

The show’s executive producers are David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment, Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod. Iyanu was adapted from Roye Okupe’s graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder by Youneek Studios and Dark Horse Comics. Okupe, who also serves as series creator, executive producer, and showrunner, is excited about the expansion of the Iyanu universe.

 

Iyanu continues to be celebrated for its rich world-building, stunning animation, and authentic portrayal of African culture and mythology. The success of the series and its expanded universe perfectly align with Lion Forge’s mission to create multiple quality stories across various platforms from one core narrative, further solidifying its place in the global entertainment landscape. Iyanu season two will return to Cartoon Network and Max in 2026, followed by the second film currently in production.

 

 

Max is the premier global streaming platform from Warner Bros. Discovery that delivers the most unique and captivating stories, ranging from the highest quality in scripted programming, movies, documentaries, true crime, adult animation, and live sports and news (where available). Max is the destination for prestigious entertainment brands such as HBO, Warner Bros., Max Originals, DC, Harry Potter, as well as iconic shows like Friends and The Big Bang Theory, all in one place.

Cartoon Network is one of the most loved global animated networks. Widely seen by fans all over the world as the best in animation, Cartoon Network combines a rich legacy of characters and a deep roster of creatives with unique brands of storytelling. Showcasing original content from across Cartoon Network Studios, Warner Bros. Animation, Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe, and beyond, Cartoon Network programming includes “Craig of the Creek,” “Teen Titans Go!,” “We Baby Bears,” “Tiny Toons Looniversity,” and “The Heroic Quest of the Valiant Prince Ivandoe.” Cartoon Network's content commitment appeals to the complete spectrum of kids and families including preschoolers with “Batwheels,” “Bugs Bunny Builders,” and more on Cartoonito, and blockbuster hits on the ultimate family destination, ACME Night. 

 

 

About Lion Forge Entertainment

Lion Forge Entertainment (LFE), one of the few Black-owned entertainment studios of scale in North America, was founded in 2019 by David Steward II to amplify authentic, diverse voices in both animated and live-action content. With "Diverse Stories, Authentically Told" as its driving mission, LFE has won an Academy Award for Hair Love and multiple Emmy® awards. LFE is part of Polarity, a media and sports-focused firm whose portfolio includes publishers Oni-Lion Forge Publishing Group and Magnetic Press within the broader Steward Family holdings, which range from technology, sports, and music among other interests. LFE is led by President and CCO Stephanie Sperber, an accomplished and award-winning media executive and franchise builder in the kids and family space.

About Impact X

Impact X Capital is a double bottom line venture capital firm founded to support diverse and underrepresented talent across digital technology, media, and entertainment. With a bold focus on elevating storytellers from the African diaspora, Impact X Studio champions groundbreaking content that gives creative power directly to creators of color. Founded by an influential team that includes Sir Lenny Henry and Ursula Burns, Impact X is driving a new era of inclusive innovation and authentic storytelling on the world stage.

About USA Superprod

Superprod US is the New York and LA based subsidiary of the SUPERPROD Group,a technological leader who collaborates with top-tier talent and partners to produce award-winning content for US and international markets from cutting-edge animation studios in Paris, Angoulême, Milan, and Luxembourg and a creative development office in London. Its animated feature productions have been nominated for multiple Academy Awards, and have been selected for major film festivals including Cannes, Toronto, Sundance and Annecy.

SUPERPROD Group has produced films and series, both live action and animation, for Netflix, Max, Warner Bros Animation, Universal Pictures, Nickelodeon, Canal Plus, France Télévisions, TF1, M6, SND, BBC, RAI, and ARD. Recent productions include the animated series Batwheels, Lego Friends, Hello Kitty, Spirit Rangers, and Paddington, the film Mr Blake at your service starring John Malkovich, as well as the prime-time action series Panda for TF1 and musical teen sitcom Home Sweet Rome for BBC, ARD, Rai, Family Channel and Max.

 

About Forefront Media Group

Forefront Media Group is a South Africa- and Austria-based film and television company specializing in development, production, finance, and distribution. Founded in 2011, Forefront has brought award-winning African and international stories to global audiences. With offices in Johannesburg and Vienna, the company bridges continents to deliver bold, cross-cultural storytelling.

Lion Forge Entertainment is represented by Activist Artists Management.

 

Thanks to Lion Forge, YouNeek, and Kosi Harris PR for sharing this exciting news with us!

 

Watch trailers, music videos, and the first two episodes on Iyanu's Youtube Channel.

 

 

 

Iyanu Music Video From Lion Forge & Cartoon Network

 

 

Lion Forge has produced some great comics over the years. Now they're partnering with Cartoon Network and Max Spring for an animated TV series. They've even produced the song "You Are" that you can stream on your preferred platform: Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, Tidal, and Deezer. And check out the youtube link at the bottom of this post. It's terrific!

Here's all the info:

 

YEMI ALADE, LION FORGE ENTERTAINMENT, AND ALCON SLEEPING GIANT DEBUT "YOU ARE" A STUNNING 

NEW SINGLE ON MARCH 13

Anthemic Track Captures the Spirit of Iyanu Ahead of Its Cartoon Network and Max Spring Premiere

 

March 13, 2025 - Los Angeles, CA - LOS ANGELES, CA – Afropop sensation and global music icon Yemi Alade debuted her powerful new single "You Are" today, accompanied by a lyric video created by Lion Forge Entertainment featuring animation from the upcoming series Iyanu that brings the song's message of empowerment and cultural pride to life. Song Description: "You Are" by Yemi Alade Known as "Mama Africa," Yemi Alade infuses the track with her signature vibrant vocals and deep cultural roots, celebrating the strength, resilience, and magic of Yoruba heritage. Inspired by the upcoming superhero fantasy series Iyanu, the song captures the essence of a young girl’s journey of self-discovery, courage, and destiny in a world rich with mythology and history. “Music has always been a powerful way to tell our stories, and ‘You Are’ is a song that speaks to our strength and divine power. "It’s an anthem for anyone discovering their own greatness," said Yemi Alade. “Bringing this to life for Iyanu – a series rooted in Nigerian mythology – is an honor. This is for every young dreamer who believes in their destiny.” Song Credits for "You Are": Written by Michael Hodges, Yemi Alade, Kayla Morrison, Gerald Trottman, and Ghian Wright Performed by Yemi Alade Produced by Michael Hodges Michael Hodges, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, co-CEO of Alcon Sleeping Giant (ASG), and producer of the track, credits Alade's vocals with bringing a unique energy and emotion that define the song. “It was an honor to work with Yemi on this, She is the right voice for this message.”  For Roye Okupe, creator, executive producer, and showrunner of Iyanu, this collaboration has been deeply emotional. “As a Nigerian storyteller, seeing Iyanu come to life has been a dream realized. Yemi Alade’s ‘You Are’ perfectly captures the essence of the show—strength, resilience, and the magic of our heritage. This song will inspire audiences just as much as Iyanu’s journey will,” Okupe said. Lion Forge Entertainment also produced a lyric video, premiering alongside the single, featuring never-before-seen footage from the animated series Iyanu. Based on Roye Okupe’s award-winning graphic novel, published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics, the series follows a young orphan who discovers her divine powers and embarks on a heroic quest in mythical Yorubaland. At Lion Forge, we are passionate about bringing diverse, authentic stories to life, and Iyanu perfectly embodies that mission,” said Dave Steward II, CEO of Lion Forge Entertainment. “Music is a vital part of storytelling and Yemi Alade’s ‘You Are’ beautifully amplifies the heart and spirit of Iyanu. We can’t wait for audiences to experience the magic of this series and the incredible music that accompanies it.” Fans can stream You Are on all major platforms starting March 13 and watch the lyric video on the Iyanu the Series YouTube channel. Serving as a musical centerpiece for the highly anticipated series, Iyanu premieres on Cartoon Network on April 5 at 9:30 AM ET/PT and streams on Max starting April 6. Showmax will launch the full first season across 44 African countries on June 13. For updates, follow @iyanuseries and @yemialade on social media. ABOUT LION FORGE ENTERTAINMENT Lion Forge Entertainment (LFE), one of the few Black-owned entertainment studios of scale in North America, was founded in 2019 by David Steward II to amplify authentic, diverse voices in both animated and live-action content. With "Diverse Stories, Authentically Told" as its driving mission, LFE has won an Academy Award for Hair Love and multiple Emmy® awards. LFE is part of Polarity, a media and sports-focused firm whose portfolio includes publishers Oni-Lion Forge Publishing Group and Magnetic Press within the broader Steward Family holdings, which range from technology, sports, and music among other interests. LFE is led by President and CCO Stephanie Sperber, an accomplished and award-winning media executive and franchise builder in the kids and family space. ABOUT ALCON SLEEPING GIANT ASG is a music-driven entertainment company that is committed to creative excellence while maintaining an artist-friendly, partnership-oriented approach to our business. The ASG philosophy is to work with like-minded partners who share a passion for adding value back into music, a willingness to embrace innovation and vertical integration, and a commitment to excel. ABOUT EFFYZZIE MUSIC GROUP Effyzzie Music Group is a record label based in Lagos, Nigeria. Founded in 2007, it focuses on what is important: changing the narrative through music, entertainment, and culture. The label has a passion for artist development. Effyzzie Music Group is home to the international artist Yemi Alade, committed to creative excellence while maintaining an artist-friendly, partnership-oriented approach to our business. The ASG philosophy is to work with like-minded partners who share a passion for adding value back into music, a willingness to embrace innovation and vertical integration, and a commitment to excel. # # #

Yemi Alade YOU ARE (Official Lyric Video)

Lion Forge Saturday Events at NYCC

 

If you are attending New York Comic-Con, comics publisher Lion Forge is hosting several events today. Take a look at these, and consider fitting them into your schedule.

 

📺 The official IYANU Panel!

🗓️ Saturday 10/19/2024

⏰ 12:30PM - 1:30PM

📍Jacob Javits Convention Center, 429 11th Ave

Room 406.3



Be among the first to experience new footage of the upcoming 2025 series Iyanu.

This is an opportunity to dive into the journey of Iyanu, from story development to voice casting and directing, alongside key members of the creative team.

Hear firsthand insights from:

• Roye Okupe - Creator/EP
• Paula Gammon Wilson - Voice and Casting Director
• Darnell Johnson - Episodic Director
• Karama Horne - Host and LFE Integrated Marketing Lead
• Brandon Easton - Story Editor 
• 
  

📕 Book Signing

🗓️ Saturday 10/19/2024

⏰ 2:00 PM- 3:00 PM

📍Showfloor Booth #4542

Roye Okupe, creator of the "Iyanu: Child of Wonder" is signing copies of his hit graphic novel series

• Roye Okupe -Creator/EP
• Brandon Easton - Story Editor

Book signing sponsored by Lion Forge Entertainment and Blerd.com

 

 

 

 

👋🏿 Meet and Greet

🗓️ Saturday 10/19/2024

⏰ 3:30 PM- 4:300 PM

📍Blerd Booth #45831

• Roye Okupe - Creator/EP
• Paula Gammon Wilson - Voice and Casting Director
• Darnell Johnson - Episodic Director
• Karama Horne - Host and LFE Integrated Marketing Lead
• Brandon Easton - Story Editor

Giveaways, prizes and more!

 

 

 

🎮 LAN Party & Blerd NYCC After Party

🗓️ Saturday October 19th

⏰ 8:00 PM - 2:00 AM

📍OS Gaming Lounge, 50 Bowery

Get ready for an epic night of fun, music, gaming, and giveaways at OS NYC Gaming Lounge

Sponsored by the upcoming animated series Iyanu, this event is hosted by Fantastic Frankey, Shonen Showdown, and Brianna, Blerd's AI VTuber.

Groove to the tunes of FreeSoulSociety while you game and connect with fellow fans! Don't miss out on this unforgettable NYCC after-hours experience!

Link to RSVP here

 

 

 

At San Diego Comic-Con, cosplayer Vanta Creates wowed everyone with her stunning Iyanu costume, while Iceman Hickey made a surprise appearance as Biyi, bringing the characters to life in unforgettable ways.

Now, they’re back for NYCC, and this time we’re debuting Toye Cosplay!

Don’t miss the chance to see these incredible cosplays in action and immerse yourself in the world of Iyanu all over again.

 

 

Sounds like terrific fun, Lion Forge! I wish I was attending NYCC so I could hang out with you! Thanks for sharing today's schedule with us, and best wishes for Iyanu, your new animated series that launches on Cartoon Network, Max, and Showmax in 2025!

 

 

 

Iyanu on Social Media

Stay connected with Iyanu. Follow us for exclusive content, cast updates, and behind-the-scenes insights:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Lion Forge on Social Media and YouTube

Explore Lion Forge's world of diverse storytelling. Follow us on social media and YouTube for the latest updates on all our projects, including Iyanu.

• Instagram
• Facebook
• TikTok
• Twitter
• LinkedIn