TVKIDS
ITVX has acquired the exclusive VOD rights for the U.K. and non-exclusive rights for Ireland for Lion Forge Entertainment’s upcoming fantasy superhero series Iyanu.
Adapted from Roye Okupe’s graphic novel Iyanu: Child of Wonder, the series draws on Nigerian culture, music and mythology as it follows a young orphan living in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland. When a looming threat awakens divine powers that haven’t been seen since the Age of Wonders, she sets out to uncover the source of the evil.
Serah Johnson leads the all-African voice cast as Iyanu. The series also features Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Stella Damasus, Blossom Chukwujekwu and Shaffy Bello.
Okupe serves as creator, executive producer and showrunner. Story editor Brandon Easton (Transformers: War for Cybertron, Marvel’s Agent Carter) heads the writers’ room, which also features Kerri Grant (Doc McStuffins; Ada Twist, Scientist).
Iyanu is set to launch in the U.K. this summer.
“We’re so proud to have ITVX as the home for Iyanu across the U.K.,” said David Steward II, founder and CEO of Lion Forge Entertainment. “ITV is an amazing partner and fully recognizes the potential of the Iyanu franchise, and we have a shared vision for success. We’re excited for the series to premiere in the U.K. this summer and know Iyanu will resonate and inspire audiences in the U.K. and around the world.”
Darren Nartey, senior acquisitions manager for films and kids at ITV, commented, “We are very pleased to be bringing the wonderful Iyanu to the U.K. Our ITVX viewers are in for a treat.”
