The entertainment company expands relationship with YouNeek Studios’ founder Roye Okupe, which currently includes production of the animated fantasy series based on Dark Horse Comics’ award-winning graphic novel ‘Iyanu: Child of Wonder.’
Lion Forge Entertainment announced a first-look deal with award-winning Nigerian producer Roye Okupe, founder of YouNeek Studios and creator of the YouNeek YouNiverse. Lion Forge and Okupe are currently working on the animated fantasy series Iyanu (Max / Cartoon Network), based on Okupe/YouNeek Studios’ and Dark Horse Comics’ award-winning graphic novel “Iyanu: Child of Wonder.”
Under the terms of the deal, Lion Forge Entertainment will adapt Okupe’s bestselling graphic novels, which are published through Dark Horse Comics, for TV, film, and games and collaborate with Okupe on Lion Forge’s original projects that Okupe may develop, write and/or direct for the studio.
Among the properties Lion Forge has optioned to develop and produce are Okupe’s “Malika: Warrior Queen,” “E.X.O. – The Legend of Wale Williams,” “WindMaker,” and “The Oloris.”
The partnership also expands Lion Forge’s Iyanu rights to include live-action, adding new possibilities to bring the heroine to life on screen. Production is now underway on the Cartoon Network and Max animated series. Lion Forge will introduce the series to distributors at MIPCOM, which runs October 21-25 in Cannes.
The first-look deal solidifies Lion Forge Entertainment and Okupe’s commitment to bringing diverse and authentically told stories to audiences worldwide. Okupe's storytelling prowess and connection to African and Nigerian culture align with Lion Forge's dedication to delivering globally entertaining narratives and ensuring screen representation for young audiences everywhere.
“Roye Okupe's incredible talent as a creator, writer, and director is a testament to his dedication to storytelling that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds,” commented Lion Forge Entertainment founder and CEO David Steward II. “His creative vision aligns seamlessly with Lion Forge’s mission to offer diverse, culturally rich narratives that allow children to see themselves represented on screen. We are honored to embark on this journey with Roye and explore the boundless potential of the YouNeek YouNiverse.”
"I am delighted to call Lion Forge Entertainment my creative home,” added Okupe. “They have shown unwavering support for my vision of ‘Iyanu’ and the YouNeek YouNiverse, and I am eager to work closely with them on bringing these stories to life. This partnership not only strengthens our commitment to authentically represent Nigerian and African stories but also opens the door to new, original projects within the YouNeek YouNiverse and Lion Forge’s exciting originals. Together, we aim to make a lasting impact on the world of entertainment."
“I look forward to exploring Roye’s captivating YouNeek YouNiverse and collaborating closely with him to develop additional authentic and compelling content for kids and families around the world,” said Lion Forge Entertainment COO Stephanie Sperber. “Together, we aspire to create generational stories that entertain and inspire.”
This deal is the latest in a series of strategic moves for Lion Forge, following the expansion of the company’s senior leadership, the launch of an international distribution division, the signing of a first-look deal with Nickelodeon Animation, entering a content partnership with advertising company Dentsu, and inked a multi-title development deal with Penguin Young Readers for a slate of children’s film and TV projects.
Source: Lion Forge Entertainment
Debbie Diamond Sarto is news editor at Animation World Network.
