In recent years, there has been a growing demand for authentic African stories, and one production that is answering that call with passion and creativity is the animated fantasy series, ‘Iyanu’.
The series, which is set for its Africa premiere on Friday, June 13, 2025, on Showmax is a groundbreaking animated series that is already capturing global attention while shining a powerful spotlight on African culture. Based on the graphic novel by Nigerian filmmaker, Roye Okupe, the show is a landmark for African animation, infusing its narrative with the rich traditions of Yoruba mythology.
However, ‘Iyanu’ is more than just a fantasy adventure; it is a cultural movement that celebrates African heritage, educates young viewers, and signals the arrival of Africa’s next creative boom— animation.
A story deeply rooted in African mythology
At its core, ‘Iyanu’ tells the story of a teenage orphan living in a fictional version of Yorubaland who discovers she has supernatural powers. These powers are tied to a destiny that sees her fighting to save her kingdom from ancient, dark forces. This coming-of-age narrative is deeply embedded in Yoruba traditions and spirituality, borrowing elements from centuries-old stories, deities, and cosmology.
This approach is particularly significant in an industry that has often looked to Greek or Norse mythologies for inspiration. By grounding the series in Yoruba mythology, ‘Iyanu’ offers viewers a refreshing lens into African spirituality and worldview. For many African viewers, especially children, it is a thrilling experience to see characters, landscapes, and cultural practices that resemble their own. For global audiences, it is an opportunity to explore a rich tradition that has long been underrepresented in mainstream media.
A global platform for Nigerian talents
A key strength of ‘Iyanu’ lies in its commitment to authenticity, and the platforming of a number of Nigerian talents.
According to a statement shared with Saturday Beats by the producers of the show, it boasts a stellar voice cast, made up of top Nigerian creatives, including Shaffy Bello, Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Blossom Chukwujekwu, and Stella Damasus.
Award-winning voice actor, Serah Johnson, acts as Iyanu, while Okey Jude plays the role of Biyi, Iyanu’s carefree adventurer friend; and Samuel Kugbiyi is Toye, Iyanu’s bookworm friend.
Indeed, their performances bring depth and nuance to the characters, while the use of Nigerian accents, intonations, and linguistic rhythms preserves the cultural integrity of the dialogue.
The show also incorporates African fashion, architecture, music, and language into its visual and auditory design. From the vibrant fabrics worn by characters to the rhythmic beats of Yoruba drums, every frame of the series pulses with African life. Music for the series, including the theme song, was produced in part by Grammy-winning afropop singer Yemi Alade, whose contributions further deepen the show’s cultural roots.
Describing the show as a “full-circle” moment, the producer, Okupe, stated that he was inspired by watching cartoon characters as a kid and wanting to create something that African children could relate better with. He said, “One of the reasons I started YouNeek Studios and created ‘Iyanu’ is because I grew up in Lagos, watching superhero stories on DStv. To now see ‘Iyanu’ launching on Showmax across 44 African countries is truly a full-circle moment.
“I am beyond thrilled that kids, adults and families across the continent will get to see a superhero who looks, sounds, and feels like them. I can’t wait for audiences throughout Africa to experience the magic and wonder of Iyanu; a show that is already capturing hearts around the world.”
Cultural education through entertainment
One of the most impactful aspects of ‘Iyanu’ is its ability to educate through storytelling. For African children, particularly those in the Diaspora, the series offers an engaging way to learn about their roots. Concepts like orishas (Yoruba deities), proverbs, and indigenous wisdom are seamlessly woven into the plot, providing cultural lessons without coming across as didactic.
For non-African audiences, ‘Iyanu’ serves as an accessible entry point into African history and philosophy. It challenges stereotypes and expands the global understanding of what African societies have contributed to world civilisation. Importantly, it does this through entertainment, which has always been a powerful vehicle for cultural exchange.
The rise of African animation
‘Iyanu’ is part of a broader movement within Africa’s creative industries. In recent years, animation studios across the continent have begun to emerge, producing content that is both high in quality and rich in local flavor. Nigerian-based studios such as Youneek Studios, which is behind ‘Iyanu’, are leading the charge.
The increasing accessibility of animation technology and the rise of streaming platforms have opened doors for African animators and storytellers. Collaborations with global media houses like Cartoon Network and HBO Max are a testament to the growing recognition of African talent. With major investments flowing into African content creation, animation is poised to be the next big frontier for Africa’s creative economy.
Inspiring a new generation of creatives
When young African children see heroes who look like them, speak their languages, and live in worlds inspired by their cultures, it sends a powerful message. Iyanu is inspiring a new generation of creatives who are beginning to see animation as a viable career path.
Animation allows for limitless imagination. Through it, African creators can reimagine the continent’s past, present and future. Whether retelling historical events, envisioning futuristic societies, or spinning tales of magical kingdoms, animation provides a medium in which African voices can flourish on their own terms.
The international success of ‘Iyanu’ proves that African stories resonate with audiences around the world. Viewers are drawn to its originality, emotional depth, and vibrant aesthetic. Just like anime brought Japanese culture to the global forefront, African animation has the potential to do the same for the continent.
Moreover, Iyanu’s reception challenges outdated industry assumptions that African-themed content has limited commercial appeal. Instead, it proves that authenticity sells and that audiences crave fresh, diverse narratives.
Challenges and the road ahead
While the success of ‘Iyanu’ is encouraging, challenges remain. The African animation industry still faces issues such as limited funding, insufficient training programmes, and infrastructure gaps. Yet, the momentum generated by ‘Iyanu’ and similar projects is attracting attention from investors, educators, and governments who are beginning to see the sector’s potential.
There is also a growing need for cultural preservation. As African societies become increasingly digitised and globalised, initiatives such as ‘Iyanu’ play a vital role in preserving languages, stories, and customs that might otherwise be lost.
As Africa’s animation industry continues to grow, we are witnessing the dawn of a new creative era; one in which African stories are told by African creators on a global stage. And if ‘Iyanu’ is any indication, the world is not just ready for these stories; it is hungry for them.
