A new toy company has hit the scene, debuting as the master toy licensee for Lion Forge Entertainment’s upcoming animated series Iyanu.
Steve Rosenthal, Don Robbins, and Jeff Jones, all veterans of the toy industry, founded the newly launched Kidazzle. Rosenthal is serving as President and CEO. He brings with him more than 40 years of experience within the toy and licensing industries, having held executive positions at Remco Toys and PowerTown Wrestling.
Robbins will work as Kidazzle’s Executive Vice President. His prior experience includes executive roles at Toys “R” Us. Finally, Jones is serving as the Senior Vice President of Marketing and Product Development, bringing more than 30 years of industry experience with him, including time spent as Senior Vice President of Marketing and New Product Development at Hasbro.
Under the new agreement, Kidazzle will produce a variety of toys featuring characters from Iyanu, including dolls, action figures, accessories, playsets, and more. The company will preview the new line at Licensing Expo, running from May 21-23 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.
This collaboration represents a significant step in bringing the vibrant world of Yorubaland directly to kids through innovative and diverse toy collections. With Kidazzle's esteemed team of industry veterans at the helm, we are confident that ‘Iyanu’ will captivate audiences both on-screen and off, inspiring imaginations and fostering creativity.
Iyanu is based on the graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder by Roye Okupe. The animated superhero series, set to debut on Cartoon Network and Max, follows teenage orphan Iyanu and her friends as they embark on a quest to save the world. Iyanu draws heavily from Nigerian culture, music, and mythology.
With over 100 years of collective expertise in the toy and entertainment industry, our team is eager to begin production on new and innovative toy collections, and I can think of no better way to launch than with Iyanu.
All American Licensing brokered the new agreement between Kidazzle and Lion Forge Entertainment. Kidazzle is offering previews of Iyanu’s upcoming toy line at Licensing Expo now.
Licensing Expo attendees can visit The Toy Book and The Pop Insider in Booth. No. G234 to pick up copies of our new issues — while supplies last — and discuss opportunities with our brands.
