Cartoon Network makes history with Iyanu, the first Nigerian-inspired animated superhero series to hit global television. This groundbreaking show follows 14-year-old Iyanu (Serah Johnson) who discovers she’s the reincarnation of an ancient Orisha goddess destined to protect her kingdom from supernatural threats. Blending Yoruba mythology with contemporary superhero storytelling, Iyanu features a star-studded Nigerian voice cast and stunning animation inspired by traditional Adire textile patterns and Nollywood cinema aesthetics.
The series boasts an unprecedented all-African creative team, including executive producer Eku Edewor and art director Tunde Oladimeji. Early screenings have praised its authentic cultural representation, with action sequences choreographed to Afrobeat rhythms and dialogue delivered in a mix of English and Yoruba. This revolutionary show promises to introduce young audiences worldwide to West African folklore through pulse-pounding adventures and heartfelt coming-of-age storytelling.
Complete Voice Cast of Iyanu
1: Serah Johnson as Iyanu
Rising star Serah Johnson (Far From Home, The Blood Covenant) delivers a breakout performance as the reluctant teenage goddess. Johnson masterfully captures Iyanu’s transformation from insecure orphan to confident hero, with her Yoruba-language incantations becoming a signature element.
The 17-year-old actress underwent extensive martial arts training to authentically voice fight sequences, including the climactic “Dance of the Orishas” battle in Episode 10. Her emotional rendition of Iyanu’s prayer to Oya reduced the recording crew to tears.
2: Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Olori
Nollywood royalty Adesua Etomi-Wellington (The Wedding Party, Shanty Town) brings regal intensity to Olori, the warrior queen mentoring Iyanu. Her commanding yet maternal performance bridges ancient wisdom and modern leadership ideals.
Etomi-Wellington’s duel-voice performance – switching between 21st-century English and archaic Yoruba proverbs – creates a mesmerizing auditory experience that honors Nigeria’s linguistic heritage.
3: Blossom Chukwujekwu as Kanfo
Award-winning actor Blossom Chukwujekwu (Fifty, The Royal Hibiscus Hotel) terrifies as Kanfo, the power-hungry chancellor manipulating dark magic. His silky villainous voice channels classic Nollywood antagonists while adding Shakespearean depth.
Chukwujekwu incorporated subtle goat-like vocalizations when voicing Kanfo’s demonic transformations, a chilling detail that enhances the character’s otherworldly menace.
4: Femi Sowooli as Chancellor Nuro/Nuro
Veteran actor Femi Sowoolu (King of Boys, Citation) delivers a dual performance as both the scheming chancellor and his monstrous alter-ego Nuro. His guttural monster growls were achieved through extreme vocal distortion techniques.
The actor’s transition between Nuro’s cultured political speeches and bestial roars creates one of animation’s most unsettling villain performances since Mark Hamill’s Joker.
5: Samuel Kugbiyi as Toye
Samuel Kugbiyi (The Men’s Club, Dwindle) provides comic relief as Toye, Iyanu’s loyal but clumsy best friend. His improvised Yoruba slang and exaggerated reactions keep the tone balanced between epic and relatable.
Kugbiyi’s background in stand-up comedy shines during Toye’s failed courtship of Siju, delivering the series’ most laugh-out-loud moments.
6: Tolulope Kolade as Siju
Tolulope Kolade (Blood Sisters, The Set Up) steals scenes as Siju, the fierce market girl with hidden spiritual gifts. Kolade’s rapid-fire insults and sudden shifts to spiritual possession showcase incredible vocal range.
Her character’s possession sequences required Kolade to master three distinct vocal registers – an achievement the directors called “unprecedented in animation history.”
Supporting Cast
- Paul Utomi brings gravitas as Oba Adeyinka, the conflicted king torn between tradition and progress
- Okey Jude charms as Biyi, the wise-cracking talking monkey spirit guide
- Melvina Adams-Abudu stuns in dual roles as both a gentle elder and battle-hardened soldier
- Ike Ononye terrifies as Elder Alapani, the cult leader with a voice like grinding bones
- Lord Frank‘s basso profundo gives The Fallen One an otherworldly presence
Production Innovations
- Animation Style: Cel-shaded 3D incorporating Adire textile patterns and Gelede mask motifs
- Music: Original score by Cobhams Asuquo blending talking drums with Afrobeats
- Cultural Consultants: Yoruba elders ensured mythological accuracy
- Language: 40% Yoruba dialogue with artistic subtitling
“A watershed moment for African representation in global animation.” – Variety
“Serah Johnson’s Iyanu will inspire a generation like Miles Morales did.” – The Hollywood Reporter
Don’t miss the cultural event of 2025 when Iyanu premieres April 5, 2025, on Cartoon Network.
