Cartoon Network and Max have announced that the animated series Iyanu will premiere on Cartoon Network Saturday, April 5 at 9:30 AM ET/PT, and the following day on Max. The network and streamer also released the premiere feature trailer giving audiences another glimpse into the captivating story based on Nigerian culture and mythology.

Adapted from Roye Okupe’s graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder—published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics – the show is helmed by Roye Okupe himself, who was born and raised in Nigeria and now serves as Creator, Executive Producer and Showrunner. The series is produced by Lion Forge Entertainment.

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.

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
Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Olori
Blossom Chukwujekwu as Kanfo, Toye’s father
Stella Damasus as Sewa
Shaffy Bello as Emi – The One Mother
Ike Ononye as Elder Alapani

Previously announced streaming partner Showmax has set its launch date for June 13, when the entire first season of Iyanu will be available across 44 African countries. Recently announced partner ITVX will also stream the series across the United Kingdom and Republic of 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.