Roye Okupe Gets First Look Deal with Lion Forge

Comic creator and producer Roye Okupe has signed a first look deal with Lion Forge Entertainment. Okupe is the founder of YouNeek Studios and the YouNeek YouNiverse, an interconnected world starring African heroes in science fiction and fantasy graphic novels.

Okupe recently teamed with Lion Forge on the animated series Iyanu, based on his graphic novel Iyanu: Child of Wonder about a young teen girl who discovers her connection to the Divine Ones of old. Production is underway on the animated series, which is set to air on the Cartoon Network and Max.

The deal will see Lion Forge adapting Okupe’s graphic novels (originally published by his YouNeek Studios and now under Dark Horse Comics) for film, TV, and games. Okupe will also work with Lion Forge to develop, write, and/or direct their original projects.

Okupe’s titles that Lion Forge may develop and produce include Malika: Warrior Queen, E.X.O. – The Legend of Wale Williams, Windmaker, and the team book The Oloris. They can also now adapted Iyanu for live-action, in addition to the animated series.

“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,” Lion Forge Entertainment founder and CEO David Steward II said. “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. 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,” Okupe added. “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,” Lion Forge Entertainment CCO Stephanie Sperber said. “Together, we aspire to create generational stories that entertain and inspire.”