By Gary Symons
TLL Editor in Chief
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has acquired exclusive national rights to broadcast and stream Iyanu, the hit animated series based on Nigerian culture and mythology.
The deal marks a major expansion for one of the fastest-growing new franchises in global kids’ entertainment.
The deal includes exclusive free-to-air television rights, free streaming rights, and premiere rights in Australia. Season one will debut on ABC iview Sept. 26 and air weekdays at 8 a.m. on ABC Entertains beginning Sept. 29. A second season is already in development for 2026.
Produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, the Emmy-winning studio behind the Oscar-winning short Hair Love, Iyanu is adapted from Roye Okupe’s graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder, published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics. Okupe, who was born and raised in Nigeria, serves as creator, executive producer, and showrunner.
ABC Deal Follows Rapid Global Rollout for Iyanu Franchise
The ABC deal follows a rapid rollout across key international markets. The series first premiered in the U.S. on HBO Max and Cartoon Network, where it quickly became the number 1 kids’ series on Cartoon Network, and a Top 10 Kids & Family title on HBO Max. It later launched across 44 African countries on Showmax, topping that streamer’s Kids & Family rankings, and made its UK debut on ITVX in July.
Two feature films expanding the Iyanu universe, along with a second season, were greenlit shortly after the U.S. debut, underscoring the property’s impressive momentum as a global franchise.
Set in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland, Iyanu follows a young orphan who discovers her divine powers after a looming threat emerges. Accompanied by her friends Biyi, Toye, and a magical leopard named Ekun, Iyanu embarks on a journey to confront ancient evil and uncover her destiny.
Season two will introduce a powerful new enemy as ancient magic reawakens, raising the stakes for the future of Yorubaland.
The series features an all-African voice cast, including Serah Johnson as Iyanu, AMAA winner Adesua Etomi-Wellington, three-time AMAA nominee Stella Damasus, multi-award-winning actor Blossom Chukwujekwu, and Shaffy Bello (The Black Book).
The writers’ room was led by story editor Brandon Easton (Transformers: War for Cybertron; Marvel’s Agent Carter), alongside Emmy winner Kerri Grant (Doc McStuffins; Ada Twist, Scientist).
Executive producers include David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands, and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment; Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital; Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group; Doug Schwalbe of Superprod; and Okupe of YouNeek Studios.
Steward II, the founder and CEO of Lion Forge, said the show reflects the studio’s mission to amplify authentic and diverse voices.
“Iyanu is a dynamic superhero rooted in rich world building, packed with action and filled with a fun sense of adventure,” Steward said. “It’s been inspiring to see audiences in the U.S., UK, and Africa connect with the series, and we’re excited to now partner with the ABC to bring even more families into Iyanu’s epic journey.”
Industry observers and media critics have noted that Iyanu represents a breakthrough for African-led animation on a global stage.
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With its foundation in Yoruba mythology, contemporary music, and authentic storytelling, the series is seen as part of a growing push for more diverse representation in mainstream children’s programming.
Iyanu also features an all-African voice cast led by award-winning actress Serah Johnson as Iyanu, alongside African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) winner and Vogue US cover star Adesua Etomi-Wellington, three-time AMAA nominee Stella Damasus, multi-award-winner Blossom Chukwujekwu, and Shaffy Bello (The Black Book).
Iyanu has also had a very successful year in licensing in its first season. Licensees or retail partners interested in potential partnerships can reach out to Amy Taylor Boyett, Head of Franchise Development and Marketing & Commerce at Lion Forge, at this email: amy.taylorboyett@lionforge.com