Esther Fawole
Cartoon network reveals a first of its kind cartoon series based on the yoruba culture in Nigeria, titled “iyanu”: Child Of Wonder, which is created by Roye Okupe.
This cartoon is a superhero story set in the magical kingdom of yorubaland which attract Nigerian culture,mythology, music e.t.c.
The series talks about “Iyanu”, a teenage orphan who spends her days studying Yoruba history and ancient arts but yearns for a normal life. One day, responding to danger, she unknowingly triggers her divine powers, the likes of which have not been seen since the Age of Wonders.
With newly discovered superpowers, “Iyanu” joins forces with two other teenagers as they embark on a remarkable journey to discover the truth about the evil lurking in her homeland. Throughout her adventure, she’ll uncover the truth about her past, her parents, and her ultimate destiny to save the world.
The creator, Roye Okupe will also write and direct multiple episodes.
Okupe said his mission concerning this project is to create ‘Iyanu’ for a global audience. He wanted to develop a world that combined everything he love about the fantasy genre with the majesty and awe that is ancient West Africa.
The authenticity of the ‘Iyanu’ story means everything to us and aligns perfectly with our mission to create and deliver inclusive content to global audiences.
This Nigerian cartoon ‘Iyanu”: Child of Wonder’ has it all, vast world-building, authentic characters, a strong, African female hero at the center, and a first-class team of stellar creators and producers
The project will be financed and overseen by Black-owned animation studio Lion Forge Animation.
Steward, the founder of Lion Forge said “Iyanu”: Child of Wonder is a powerful means of accomplishing and sustaining through franchise building, the depth and layers of the “Iyanu” world which allow us to explore and create a beautiful universe on-screen alongside tremendous partners.
Amy Friedman, head of kids and family programming at Warner Bros said, this Nigerian cartoon is created for kids, but the series will resonate with anyone looking for an adventure filled with surprise, magic, lore, and legend. We feel so lucky to be the home of ‘Iyanu’ and partnering with all the team production.
