“IYANU” SOARS! BRINGING MUSIC & MYTHOLOGY TO LIFE ON CARTOON NETWORK.
In a world full of superhero content, Iyanu Season 1 has emerged as a refreshing contender, not just for fans of animation, but for anyone craving diverse, culturally rich storytelling. Premiering in April 2025 on Cartoon Network and Max, Iyanu: Child of Wonder fits right in with roots deep in Yoruba mythology and a distinctly Nigerian identity, this show is transforming how African stories are told and consumed on the global stage.
But what exactly makes Iyanu Season 1 so special? Why is everyone talking about it? And more importantly, why should it be on your watchlist?
At its core, Iyanu is a coming-of-age superhero series set in the mystical world of Yorubaland. The story follows Iyanu, a teenage orphan who discovers she has ancient powers linked to a long-forgotten age known as the Age of Wonders.
When her homeland is threatened by an evil force known as the Corrupt, she embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about her heritage, her abilities, and her destiny. Alongside her loyal friends, Biyi, Toye, her magical leopard companion Ekun, and Olori her guardian and mentor who raised her in isolation in the Forest Region. Iyanu battles mystical creatures and faces corrupt leaders throughout the series. Audiences are intrigued by this tantalizing series, secrets are revealed at every turn and this animated series ups the ante.
The predominantly all Nigerian cast, the animation style, costuming and the use of elements of Yoruba folklore, language, and visual symbolism throughout, adds an authenticity to the story.
The official music video for Grammy® nominated singer Yemi Alade's single "You Are" premiered on last Friday, April 11, blending her dynamic vocals with vibrant animation from the Iyanu animated series. The visualizer showcases the series' heroine, Iyanu, and highlights action-packed scenes and powerful ancestral symbols that reflect the song's themes of identity, divine power, and self-discovery.
The video deepens the connection between the music and the world of IYANU. As a viewer of the series, you can feel the deep rooted connection between the culture, storyline, and bold, strong, intense, and beautiful cinematography.
Check out the video and song below:
We have learned that Iyana is “The Chosen” and Mama Sewa hopes Iyana can return the people to the Age of Wonders. Iyana and Biyi bond when Biyi shares his stories with her. Their puppy love is a sweet and intriguing touch.
Iyana needs to learn more skills in order to master her powers, creating a path for her to adventure, fail, reinvent, and forge forward on to reaching her ultimate self. Besides being an entertaining story, the series teaches life lessons. When Iyana witnesses the village risking their lives for her, she wants to face the Eso on her own, to not cause any harm to the villagers. Before anyone can make a move The People of the Deep appear and Iyana is stuck between two armies. Showcasing tough decisions and how you can use your power or choices for the greater good is an important lesson shown through this all inclusive animated series.
The combination of Olori's practical training and Sewa's spiritual guidance ultimately helps Iyanu embrace her identity as the Chosen One and take control of her destiny, rather than simply reacting to circumstances or following others' expectations.








Iyanu: Child of Wonder Season 1 so far is everything fans hoped it would be, an epic, emotional, and visually stunning adventure rooted in African heritage and powered by universal truths. It’s proof that the world is ready and hungry for stories that look and sound like this.
The next episode titled, "The People of the Deep" airs tomorrow April 19, 2025. Tune into Iyanu Saturday mornings at 9:30 am on Cartoon Network.