Following a breakout first season that captivated young audiences and became a cross-platform sensation, Iyanu, the animated fantasy series inspired by Nigerian mythology, is renewed for a second season on Cartoon Network and Max. Two feature-length films expanding the Iyanu universe are also on the way.
Produced by Lion Forge Entertainment and based on Roye Okupe’s graphic novels Iyanu: Child of Wonder, the series follows a teenage orphan who discovers her divine powers and her destiny to save the ancient kingdom of Yorubaland.
“We’re incredibly inspired by the response to ‘Iyanu’ and the connection it has made with audiences,” says David Steward II, CEO of Lion Forge Entertainment. “The opportunity to expand this world with a second season and two feature films is a testament to the power of meaningful storytelling and innovative creative collaboration. We’re grateful for the continued support of our partners at Cartoon Network and Max, and it’s been a lot of fun working with Roye to bring Iyanu to life and build the franchise.”
“This is a huge win for Iyanu, Lion Forge Entertainment, and YouNeek Studios fans around the world,” adds Okupe, who also serves as series creator, executive producer, and showrunner. “The support for our show has been nothing short of humbling — and because of that incredible response, we now get to bring the next chapter of Iyanu’s story to life. I’m thrilled to continue expanding the world of Iyanu and the YouNeek YouNiverse, and to share this journey with audiences across the globe. This is just the beginning,” he says.
Season two will feature 10 new episodes, following Iyanu as she continues to master her burgeoning powers. Caught in a fierce conflict between Elu and the People of the Deep, Iyanu must navigate Yorubaland as various factions vie for divine artifacts. As Team Chosen reunites, Iyanu faces escalating threats and confronts secrets buried deep in her past.
The first of two animated films, The Age of Wonders, is set to debut later this year. The movie takes place 500 years before Iyanu’s rise, at the height of Yorubaland’s magical civilization. When the embodiment of the seven deadly sins threatens to bring about the Age of Darkness, Iyanu’s predecessors join forces with the Divine Ones to restore balance.
Season two of Iyanu will premiere in 2026 on Cartoon Network and Max. The second film is in production.
Learn more about Lion Forge Entertainment at www.lionforgeentertainment.com.
