‘Iyanu’: Nigerian Animated Series Transforms African Mythology into Global Hit

Roye Okupe’s groundbreaking animated series, Iyanu, continues to make waves globally, blending Yoruba mythology, female empowerment, and cinematic storytelling.

The HBO Max and Cartoon Network series, produced by YouNeek Studios and Lion Forge Entertainment, has been nominated for multiple NAACP Image Awards, including Outstanding Children’s Program and Outstanding Animated Series. Co-creator Brandon Easton and Okupe were also nominated for Outstanding Writing for the prequel feature film, Iyanu: The Age of Wonders. Voting for the awards runs through February 7, 2026.

Following the success of its first season, Iyanu has been renewed for a second season and a second feature film, Iyanu: The War of Twin Princes, both set for release later this year. The story centers on a courageous young orphan in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland, discovering her extraordinary powers and navigating a world inspired by rich African culture.

Okupe originally conceived Iyanu in 2019 as a love letter to his unborn daughter, Ara, drawing inspiration from his own graphic novels, E.X.O – The Legend of Wale Williams and Malika: Warrior Queen. The show emphasizes female empowerment, influenced heavily by the strong women in Okupe’s life, including his mother and sisters.

“People notice the female characters in leadership and say it’s impressive, but that’s what I grew up with,” Okupe said. “The relationship between Iyanu and her mentor Olori mirrors my relationship with my mom—love, care, and discipline.”

The show’s authenticity is rooted in Yoruba culture, reflecting Okupe’s Lagos upbringing. He explains that the series showcases a specific African cultural lens, countering the tendency to generalize the continent. “Nigeria alone has three major tribes and over 300 subtribes,” Okupe notes. “Iyanu is not just African—it’s distinctly Yoruba, while remaining universal in its appeal.”

The series is recognized for its stunning animation, cultural fidelity, and universal themes, blending Okupe’s influences from Batman and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with African storytelling. Musical elements, chants, and Yoruba-language choirs are integrated to convey emotion even when viewers do not understand the language.

Despite its achievements, the journey has been bittersweet. Okupe’s father, a staunch supporter, passed away on the night of Iyanu’s first screening. “It was heartbreaking, but I feel he’s still guiding me,” Okupe reflects. Meanwhile, his mother continues to support the project with tireless enthusiasm, even participating in award voting.

Iyanu’s global acclaim demonstrates the growing appetite for African-inspired storytelling on mainstream platforms, highlighting the potential for culturally specific narratives to achieve international resonance. Okupe emphasizes gratitude and responsibility: “Millions dream of creating their own show. I’m grateful to have the opportunity, and I want to do right by it.”