Iyanu: Child of Wonder is a graphic novel series published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics. Back in 2022, Max, Cartoon Network, and Lion Forge Animation announced an adaptation of the title from writer Roye Okapi and artist Godwin Akpan. Now the highly anticipated animated show has a premiere date and the wait isn’t too much longer.
Iyanu is set to premiere April 5, at 9:30 AM ET/PT on Cartoon Network and the following day on Max. Okapi helped bring this adaptation to life serving as creator, executive producer, and showrunner. Check out the official description below:
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, she sets out to uncover the source of this evil, unlocking her destiny along the way.
The series boasts a talented all-African voice cast. They include Serah Johnson (Iyanu), Okey Jude (Biyi, Iyanu’s carefree adventurer friend), Samuel Kugbiyi (Toye, Iyanu’s bookworm companion), Adesua Etomi-Wellington (Olori), Blossom Chukwujekwu (Kanfo, Toye’s father), Stella Damasus (Sewa), Shaffy Bello (Emi – The One Mother), and Ike Ononye (Elder Alapani).
The show will have a strong international push as well. Streaming partner Showmax set its launch date for June 13, when the entire first season becomes available across 44 African countries. Recently announced partner ITVX will stream the series across the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland this summer.
Iyanu premieres April 5 on Cartoon Network and the next day on Max.
