One of Cartoon Network’s and Max’s latest shows set to air next year is unlike much of their current programming. Iyanu is an inclusive superhero series following a young female orphan as she discovers she’s been granted superpowers. She becomes tasked with saving her people from an ancient curse set to destroy humanity. Roye Okupe, the creator of the series, is also the author of the books on which the show will be based.
Cast & Crew of Iyanu Announced
The casting for Iyanu has already been announced. Serah Johnson will play the titular hero, while Adesua Etomi-Wellington plays Olori, Stella Damasus plays Sewa, Blossom Chukwujekwu plays Kanfo, and Shaffy Bello is Emi. On the crew side, Brandon Easton, writer and story editor for Avengers: Assemble and Agent Carter, and Kerri Grant, a Daytime Emmy award-winning writer for Elena of Avalor, are joining the coming-of-age tale. Lion Forge Entertainment, the team behind the Academy Award-winning animated short film Hair Love, has signed on to produce Iyanu, and the theme song for the show has already dropped.
Yemi Alade, a Nigerian Afropop singer-songwriter who received a Grammy award for her collaboration on Angelique Kidjo’s Mother Nature album, was chosen to perform the show’s theme. Before her work on Iyanu, Alade was handpicked by music royalty Beyoncé to perform “Don’t Jealous Me” and “My Power,” two of the original songs from the soundtrack of the 2019 remake of The Lion King.
Perspectives on Iyanu’s Potential Impact
Roye Okupe’s interest in African folklore and graphic novels dates back to his early childhood. In an interview with Variety magazine, Okupe explained, “I literally grew up watching superhero stories on DStv (South African TV channel) in Lagos, Nigeria. So it would be an understatement to say that I’m delighted that Showmax will be introducing Nigerian children to ‘Iyanu,’ a superhero who looks and sounds like them.”
When interviewed by Variety, Lion Forge CEO David Steward II echoed many of Okupe’s sentiments: “’Iyanu’ is a series that plays to young audiences everywhere in the world, but its heart and roots are in Africa. This is why we’re so proud to announce a deal with Showmax to stream ‘Iyanu’ in 44 countries throughout Africa. We envision African children being inspired by ‘Iyanu’ – and a superhero world shaped around their own.”
Final Thoughts
Steeped in African culture and folklore and staffed with an eclectic cast and crew to bring it to life, Iyanu has all the signs of a certified hit for author Roye Okupe and the folks at Warner Brothers and among viewers. The series will be available to watch next year on both Cartoon Network and Max.
For More Great Content
Are you desiring top-tier content that covers everything? From thrilling sports and intoxicating entertainment news to gaming tips and professional betting advice, Total Apex covers it all. Delve into our no-fluff articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the latest scoops in the gaming industry that will take your experiences to the next level.
Finally, our betting advice will give you a decisive edge over the competition and increase your odds of beating the books. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, Total Apex is your one-stop shop for all things compelling and relevant. Don’t forget we cover Fantasy Sports, too!
Check out all our sites: Total Apex Sports, Total Apex Fantasy Sports, Total Apex Entertainment, Total Apex Sports Bets, and Total Apex Gaming. Out of the ashes of obscurity will rise a beast. Always remember to Respect The Hustle! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports to stay informed.
