African animated fantasy series Iyanu is officially returning for a second season, and expectations are already high. Following a strong debut that introduced global audiences to a richly imagined world rooted in Yoruba mythology, Season 2 raises the stakes, digs deeper into the story, and introduces a bigger conflict that could change the future of Yorubaland.
Iyanu Season 2
Cartoon Network and Max (formerly HBO Max) have confirmed that Iyanu has been renewed for Season 2. The new season is scheduled to premiere between March and May 2026 and will consist of 10 episodes, continuing directly from the events of Season 1.
The renewal is a strong vote of confidence in the series, which has been praised for its animation quality, cultural authenticity, and fresh storytelling perspective within the fantasy genre.
What Season 2 Will Be About
Season 2 is reported to expand the story far beyond Iyanu’s personal journey of discovery. While she continues to learn how to control her divine abilities, the wider world around her begins to unravel.
This season introduces a major conflict between Elu and the People of the Deep, a powerful faction led by a new and dangerous antagonist. As ancient divine artifacts resurface, different factions across Yorubaland begin to compete for power, pushing the land toward chaos.
At the center of it all is Iyanu, who must navigate shifting alliances, uncover hidden truths about her past, and decide what kind of protector she is meant to become.
Returning Cast
Season 2 will retain much of its original all-African voice cast, maintaining the authenticity that helped define the series. Returning voices include:
- Serah Johnson as Iyanu
- Okey Jude as Biyi
- Samuel Kugbiyi as Toye
- Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Olori
- Blossom Chukwujekwu
- Stella Damasus
- Shaffy Bello
The creative team remains led by Roye Okupe, creator of the original Iyanu: Child of Wonder graphic novel, ensuring continuity in vision and storytelling.
Expanding the Universe Beyond Season 2
In addition to the second season, the Iyanu universe is also growing through feature-length animated films.
One of them, Iyanu: The Age of Wonders, is a prequel set approximately 500 years before the main series and was released in August 2025. A second feature film is also in development and expected to arrive in 2026, further deepening the franchise’s mythology.
Iyanu stands out as one of the few African-led animated projects to break into the global mainstream. By drawing deeply from Yoruba mythology, African history, and local talent, the series moves away from the usual animation formulas and creates space for African stories to be told and celebrated on a world stage.