‘Iyanu’ is number one

Series produced by Lion Forge Entertainment leads ratings across U.S. and Africa

A week before its U.S. premiere on the Cartoon Network, “Iyanu” creator and showrunner Roye Okupe referred to himself as “the luckiest guy in the world.”

The gratitude stemmed from being able to have an animated series reflect his African roots – and have it produced by one of the world’s leading Black-owned animation studios, Lion Forge Entertainment.

Upon its releases on Max and Cartoon Network in April, “Iyanu” ranked as the number one kids series on Cartoon Network and a Top 10 Kids & Family series on Max. The success led Cartoon Network and Max to greenlight season two – and two feature films.

Two months later, Okupe’s “Iyanu” blessings continue. Released across 44 countries in Africa on June 13, “Iyanu” surpassed international children’s series “Knuckles” among youth viewership. In doing so, the series became the top rated children’s show in Africa, less than a week after its premiere on Showmax. 

“‘Iyanu’ is a story deeply rooted in Yoruba history, culture, and mythology—and that cultural authenticity is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Okupe, who also serves as an executive producer. “But as I always say, ‘Iyanu’ is for everyone – kids, adults, and families from all walks of life.” Keep reading