Cartoon Network and Max Greenlight Season Two of IYANU and Two Feature-Length Films

Series Created by Award-Winning Nigerian Filmmaker, Roye Okupe and Produced by Lion Forge Entertainment

Following the breakout first season that captivated young audiences and became a cross-platform sensation, it was revealed today that season two of Lion Forge Entertainment's IYANU, the epic animated fantasy series inspired by Nigerian mythology, along with two feature films expanding its universe, have been greenlit by Cartoon Network and Max.

Based on the graphic novel series "Iyanu: Child of Wonder" by Roye Okupe, and produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, IYANU follows a teenage orphan who discovers her divine powers and her destiny to save the ancient kingdom of Yorubaland.

"We're incredibly inspired by the response to 'Iyanu' and the connection it has made with audiences," said David Steward II, CEO of Lion Forge Entertainment. "The opportunity to expand this world with a second season and two feature films is a testament to the power of meaningful storytelling and innovative creative collaboration. We're grateful for the continued support of our partners at Cartoon Network and Max, and it's been a lot of fun working with Roye to bring Iyanu to life and build the franchise."

"This is a huge win for IYANU, Lion Forge Entertainment and YouNeek Studios fans around the world. The support for our show has been nothing short of humbling - and because of that incredible response, we now get to bring the next chapter of IYANU's story to life. I'm thrilled to continue expanding the world of IYANU and the YouNeek YouNiverse, and to share this journey with audiences across the globe. This is just the beginning," said Okupe.

Season two will return with 10 new episodes where we'll see Iyanu continue to master her burgeoning powers as she finds herself in the midst of a fierce conflict between Elu and the People of the Deep, led by a new formidable opponent. With various factions of Yorubaland vying for powerful divine artifacts that have reemerged, Iyanu strives to find a way to end the war and restore peace. As Team Chosen reunites and tensions rise between old allies and foes, Iyanu must confront even more powerful threats from the Age of Wonders - including secrets buried deep within her own past.

In addition to the highly anticipated second season, IYANU is expanding further with two feature-length films now in production for the network and streaming platforms. The first animated film, titled "The Age of Wonders," is set to be released later this year. It will transport viewers 500 years before IYANU's rise, taking them to a thriving Yorubaland at the peak of its magical civilization. When the embodiment of the seven deadly sins threatens the world, Iyanu's predecessors join forces with the Divine Ones to prevent the Age of Darkness.

The show's executive producers are David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment, Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod. IYANU was adapted from Roye Okupe's graphic novel series "Iyanu: Child of Wonder" by Youneek Studios and Dark Horse Comics. Okupe, who also serves as series creator, executive producer, and showrunner, is excited about the expansion of the IYANU universe.

IYANU continues to be celebrated for its rich world-building, stunning animation, and authentic portrayal of African culture and mythology. The success of the series and its expanded universe perfectly align with Lion Forge's mission to create multiple quality stories across various platforms from one core narrative, further solidifying its place in the global entertainment landscape.

IYANU season two will return to Cartoon Network and Max in 2026, followed by the second film currently in production.

Max (soon to be called HBO Max) is the premier global streaming platform from Warner Bros. Discovery that delivers the most unique and captivating stories, ranging from the highest quality in scripted programming, movies, documentaries, true crime, adult animation, and live sports and news (where available). Max is the destination for prestigious entertainment brands such as HBO, Warner Bros., Max Originals, DC, Harry Potter, as well as iconic shows like "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory," all in one place.

Cartoon Network is one of the most loved global animated networks. Widely seen by fans all over the world as the best in animation, Cartoon Network combines a rich legacy of characters and a deep roster of creatives with unique brands of storytelling. Showcasing original content from across Cartoon Network Studios, Warner Bros. Animation, Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe, and beyond, Cartoon Network programming includes "Craig of the Creek," "Teen Titans Go!," "We Baby Bears," "Tiny Toons Looniversity," and "The Heroic Quest of the Valiant Prince Ivandoe." Cartoon Network's content commitment appeals to the complete spectrum of kids and families including preschoolers with "Batwheels," "Bugs Bunny Builders," and more on Cartoonito, and blockbuster hits on the ultimate family destination, ACME Night.

About Lion Forge Entertainment

Lion Forge Entertainment (LFE), one of the few Black-owned entertainment studios of scale in North America, was founded in 2019 by David Steward II to amplify authentic, diverse voices in both animated and live-action content. With "Diverse Stories, Authentically Told" as its driving mission, LFE has won an Academy Award for Hair Love and multiple Emmy(R) awards. LFE is part of Polarity, a media and sports-focused firm whose portfolio includes publishers Oni-Lion Forge Publishing Group and Magnetic Press within the broader Steward Family holdings, which range from technology, sports, and music among other interests. LFE is led by President and CCO Stephanie Sperber, an accomplished and award-winning media executive and franchise builder in the kids and family space.

About Impact X

Impact X Capital is a double bottom line venture capital firm founded to support diverse and underrepresented talent across digital technology, media, and entertainment. With a bold focus on elevating storytellers from the African diaspora, Impact X Studio champions groundbreaking content that gives creative power directly to creators of color. Founded by an influential team that includes Sir Lenny Henry and Ursula Burns, Impact X is driving a new era of inclusive innovation and authentic storytelling on the world stage.

About USA Superprod

Superprod US is the New York and LA based subsidiary of the SUPERPROD Group,a technological leader who collaborates with top-tier talent and partners to produce award-winning content for US and international markets from cutting-edge animation studios in Paris, Angoulême, Milan, and Luxembourg and a creative development office in London. Its animated feature productions have been nominated for multiple Academy Awards, and have been selected for major film festivals including Cannes, Toronto, Sundance and Annecy.

SUPERPROD Group has produced films and series, both live action and animation, for Netflix, Max, Warner Bros Animation, Universal Pictures, Nickelodeon, Canal Plus, France Télévisions, TF1, M6, SND, BBC, RAI, and ARD. Recent productions include the animated series Batwheels, Lego Friends, Hello Kitty, Spirit Rangers, and Paddington, the film Mr Blake at your service starring John Malkovich, as well as the prime-time action series Panda for TF1 and musical teen sitcom Home Sweet Rome for BBC, ARD, Rai, Family Channel and Max.

About Forefront Media Group

Forefront Media Group is a South Africa- and Austria-based film and television company specializing in development, production, finance, and distribution. Founded in 2011, Forefront has brought award-winning African and international stories to global audiences. With offices in Johannesburg and Vienna, the company bridges continents to deliver bold, cross-cultural storytelling.

Lion Forge Entertainment is represented by Activist Artists Management.