Kidazzle Named Iyanu Master Toy Licensee

Lion Forge Entertainment has named Kidazzle, a new toy company founded by industry veterans Steve Rosenthal, Don Robbins and Jeff Jones, as the master toy licensee for Iyanu.

Iyanu, an adaptation of Roye Okupe’s graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder, is a superhero tale that draws from Nigerian mythology, culture and music. Under a multiyear partnership, Kidazzle will manufacture and market an array of toys based on characters from the show, including dolls, action figures, accessories, playsets, role-play items and more.

This marks the launch of Kidazzle as a company. Rosenthal is assuming the roles of president and CEO with over 40 years of experience in the toy and licensing industry. His career boasts various achievements across Marvel Action Figures, DC Action Figures, Universal Monsters Action Figures, Tonka Trucks and more. Robbins is signed on as executive VP. Previously, he was general merchandise manager at Toys “R” Us, overseeing retail sales approaching nearly $1 billion. Jones takes on the role of senior VP of marketing and product development. He has over 30 years of experience in the toy industry, with previous experience at Hasbro, where he oversaw all interactive electronic toys and innovations, including Furby and FurReal Friends.

“I’m pleased to join forces with fellow toy industry vets Don Robbins and Jeff Jones to establish Kidazzle,” Rosenthal said. “With over 100 years of collective expertise in the toy and entertainment industry, our team is eager to begin production on new and innovative toy collections, and I can think of no better way to launch than with Iyanu.”

“We are happy to partner with Lion Forge to bring Iyanu to life through a diverse line of toys and are looking forward to providing the industry with a sneak peek at the Licensing Expo this month,” Rosenthal continued.

“We are excited to partner with Kidazzle to be the master toy licensee for Iyanu,” said David Steward II, founder and CEO of Lion Forge Entertainment. “This collaboration represents a significant step in bringing the vibrant world of Yorubaland directly to kids through innovative and diverse toy collections. With Kidazzle’s esteemed team of industry veterans at the helm, we are confident that Iyanu will captivate audiences both on-screen and off, inspiring imaginations and fostering creativity.”