Why Iyanu is the Animated Series We’ve Been Waiting For

Representation is a crucial tool for self-discovery and empowerment, especially in a world where media can shape how we see ourselves. “I think it’s important to have representation because people need to see themselves in media. It validates their existence and inspires the next generation,” says Khary Randolph, a sentiment echoed by creators like Roye Okupe. His upcoming animated series Iyanu, set to premiere on Cartoon Network on April 5 at 9:30 AM ET/PT, is a powerful step in bringing underrepresented voices to the forefront.

As a child, seeing heroes who shared his cultural background was revolutionary for Okupe. With Iyanu, adapted from his graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder, he aims to introduce Nigerian mythology, history, and music into mainstream media, offering more than just entertainment—it’s an invitation to experience the richness of a culture that often doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves.

Roye Okupe on Representation and the Importance of Heroes

“I celebrated seeing heroes that looked like me in comics, TV, and film,” Okupe shares in an exclusive interview. “There’s importance in it because it inspires us to be the best version of ourselves as we grow into adulthood.” For Okupe, creating Iyanu isn’t just about telling a story—it’s about shaping the future for a new generation of viewers who will look to these characters as role models.

Starting Small: Roye Okupe’s Journey to Iyanu

The road to Iyanu wasn’t an easy one. Okupe recalls the challenges of producing an animated series, especially with the financial costs involved. “If you’re making animation, these things cost a whole bunch of money,” he admits. “I had to take a step back and realize, okay, what way can I tell the same story? How can I do it in a more affordable way, but still tell the story I want to tell?”

Starting small was his answer. His journey began with graphic novels like E.X.O. and the Malika series, where he built a dedicated fanbase. “I needed to get these stories out, so I could prove that there was actually a fan base for this type of storytelling,” Okupe explains. Now, with Iyanu, he’s ready to share this world with a wider audience, blending Nigerian cultural depth with universal themes of heroism.

Iyanu’s Journey: A Tale of Self-Discovery and Heroism

The story follows Iyanu, a teenage orphan who loses all memory of her past until she unexpectedly activates divine powers tied to the gods of Yoruba land. “Iyanu has powers that can save the kingdom from a corrupt force that has forced humanity to hide behind walls for centuries,” Okupe explains. But her journey is much deeper than saving the world—it’s about self-discovery, acceptance, and choosing to help those who may not necessarily support her.

“True heroism isn’t just saving people who root for you, it’s also about saving those who may not like or agree with you,” Okupe reflects. “That’s something that we can all aspire to, especially in a world that feels so divided.”

The Spiritual Power of Empathy in Iyanu

One of the standout features of Iyanu is the unique powers of its titular character, a combination of the unnatural, natural, and supernatural. Okupe breaks down her abilities: “The unnatural allows her to charge objects with kinetic energy. The natural requires her to master inner peace, becoming one with all life. And the supernatural is tied to spiritual energy, which she must learn to wield and control.”

For Okupe, the spiritual aspect of Iyanu’s powers is the most significant. “It’s about empathy, and empathy is the hardest power to master. It’s hard to have empathy for people you don’t like, but that’s the true test of character.” The series is a call for understanding, connection, and ultimately unity—a message that resonates deeply with our divided world.

Cultural Authenticity: A Nigerian Cast and Music Roots

Cultural authenticity is at the core of Iyanu. The show features a predominantly Nigerian voice cast, a decision Okupe is particularly passionate about. “It was important for me that the characters are voiced by Nigerians, and that it’s true to the way Nigerians speak and behave,” he says. “But we also made sure it was accessible for people from all backgrounds.” The cast, assembled by casting director Paula Gamble Wilson, brings an undeniable energy to the characters, making them feel as rich and dynamic as the world Okupe has created.

Musically, Iyanu also reflects its Nigerian roots, with renowned Afrobeats artist Yimmy Allardy composing the show’s theme song. Okupe is thrilled with the collaboration, noting, “It’s authentic, it’s cultural, and it’s something that resonates globally.”

The Key Role of Support: Roye Okupe’s Secret Weapon

A key part of Okupe’s journey has been the unwavering support from his wife. “I mean, that’s, I’ve said it so many times. My wife is my secret weapon,” he says. “Being able to be happily married to your best friend who’s also your number one fan… They just love you for you, and they’re there to support you, regardless of whether you succeed or you fail.”

Having his wife by his side has provided Okupe with the peace he needs to push through the intense demands of creating an animated series of Iyanu’s caliber. “It takes a lot to create, and having somebody that is your partner, filling in the gaps when you’re busy or stressed, is crucial for success,” he continues. “100 percent, without my wife, I would not be where I am today. Guaranteed.”

A Love Letter to His Daughter: The Heart of Iyanu

Roye Okupe explicitly states that Iyanu: Child of Wonder was created as a “love letter” to his daughter, who is currently four years old (as of April 2025). Okupe wanted to create a character who would be a positive role model not only for his daughter but for children all over the world. “If I were sitting down with my daughter, reading a book or watching something, it would be meaningful if it contained elements of where she comes from,” he shares. He wanted to craft a show that would be both entertaining and educational—helping her learn about her own history and culture, which is something he felt was important as a father born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Diverse Voices in Entertainment

As for the future, Okupe has his sights set on opening doors for diverse voices in the entertainment industry. “My hope is that Iyanu doesn’t just become a success for the people who worked on it, but also encourages Hollywood to focus more on cultural accuracy and representation. It’s not just about people like me telling their stories—it’s about everyone having the chance to tell their story authentically.” As for the future, Okupe has his sights set on opening doors for diverse voices in the entertainment industry. “My hope is that Iyanu doesn’t just become a success for the people who worked on it, but also encourages Hollywood to focus more on cultural accuracy and representation. It’s not just about people like me telling their stories—it’s about everyone having the chance to tell their story authentically.” As for the future, Okupe has his sights set on opening doors for diverse voices in the entertainment industry. “My hope is that Iyanu doesn’t just become a success for the people who worked on it, but also encourages Hollywood to focus more on cultural accuracy and representation. It’s not just about people like me telling their stories—it’s about everyone having the chance to tell their story authentically.”

At the core of it all, Iyanu is a step forward in a cultural revolution. Okupe is not only creating heroes for today; he’s shaping the heroes of tomorrow.

Iyanu is produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, the same studio behind the Oscar-winning short Hair Love. Premiering on Cartoon Network, Max, and Showmax, the series features an all-Nigerian voice cast, with Serah Johnson leading as the titular character, Iyanu. Joining her are renowned Nigerian actors such as Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Stella Damasus, Shaffy Bello, and Blossom Chukwujekwu, bringing depth and authenticity to this culturally rich narrative.