Celebrating African Stories On Cartoonito On Youth Day

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This Youth Day, Cartoonito celebrates the power of African stories, from homegrown songs and local voices sharing their passions, to fan-favourite Grizzy & the Lemmings landing in the African Savannah. As part of Cartoonito’s Youth Day celebration is Akissi, the pan-African animated special that captures the joy, mischief, and magic of childhood, voiced by none other than Johannesburg’s own Phophi Muleya.

 

At just 19 years old, Phophi brings fearless energy to the title character, a spirited Ivorian girl full of courage and charm. For her, Youth Day is more than a calendar date, it’s a reminder of what’s possible. “Youth Day reminds me that my voice, and every young person’s voice, matters,” she says.

“I’m living proof that creativity can open doors you never knew existed. From recording lines between classes to seeing my name in the credits of an international show, it’s been magical.”

 

A Journey Powered by Creativity & Courage

From student to screen star, Johannesburg’s Phophi Muleya brings heart and humour to Akissi, the story of a bold Ivorian girl navigating childhood with courage and curiosity, a perfect reflection of what Youth Day stands for.

 

“As a young person in South Africa, Youth Day is a reminder that I can push beyond any societal boundaries set for me or the youth,” Phophi explains. “There’s a lot we can learn from the youth of 1976. They proved that when we stand together, we can tackle the challenges that matter most to us as young people.”

 

She adds, “Voicing Akissi and seeing young Black African children feel seen on screen has been the most rewarding part of this journey. We’re a creative generation — and our stories are powerful tools for connection and change.”

 

From local songs and African stories to fan favourites, it’s all about homegrown fun this Youth Day

Grizzy and the Lemmings even goes local with two brand-new episodes premiering on Youth Day and every weekday from 17:05. This season returns with its signature slapstick formula rooted in classic silent comedy and cartoon rivalry. Grizzy and the Lemmings land in the African Savannah, where they clash over everything from comfy naps to loud parties and mouth-watering treats. In true “frenemy” fashion, their wild disputes often lead to clever compromises. This batch of episodes sees the Lemmings throwing mega dance parties, playing video games, and stirring up chaos with games like hide-n-seek and racket sports, all while encountering exclusive new characters including elephants, warthogs, ostriches, termites, and grasshoppers.

The full day’s line-up is packed with joy, music, and imagination, a celebration of African childhood in all its creativity and colour:

• Akissi – Join Akissi, the fearless Ivorian girl with a cheeky monkey sidekick, Boubou, as they take on hilarious adventures in a vibrant African city. Voiced by local talent, Phophi Muleya

• Cartoonito Tunes – A catchy, colourful sing-along playlist filled with tunes sung in isiZulu, isiXhosa, English, Pidgin English, and Swahili. It is a joyful celebration of the continent’s sounds

• My African Stories – Children from South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria and Kenya share heartfelt slices of their daily lives, offering authentic glimpses into different African cultures

• CoComelon: It’s Cody Time – Join the gang on CoComelon Lane and sing and dance along to culturally relevant songs, including ‘Anansi Song’ and ‘African Melody Song’

• Grizzy & the Lemmings: Premiering at 17:05, the new season takes the hilarious rivalry to the African Savannah! Grizzy and the Lemmings discover new ways of turning situations to their advantage and continue fighting over yummy and loud parties. They also confront new dangers, exotic animals, experiment with unseen technologies, and don’t think twice about playing with magical items!

 

Tune In, Laugh Loud, Dream Big

“I hope every child watching Cartoonito on Youth Day feels proud of who they are and starts believing in what they can become. Our stories matter. Our voices matter,” concludes Phophi Muleya.

 

Join Cartoonito on Monday, 16 June from 08:00 for a magical Youth Day celebration bursting with local songs, local African stories and familiar characters reimagined in proudly African settings and discover just how far creativity can take Africa’s young dreamers.

 

‘Steven Universe: Lars Of The Stars’ In Development For Prime Video; ‘Teen Titans Go!’ Gets 10th Season On Cartoon Network

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From the Studio Showcase presented by Warner Bros. Animation, Cartoon Network Studios and Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe at Annecy Festival today, two major announcements promised the return of fan-favorite toon titles to screens in the near future.

Cartoon Network Studios revealed it is currently developing Steven Universe: Lars of the Stars for Prime Video. The series is a follow-up to the Peabody Award-winning Cartoon Network series Steven Universe, created by Rebecca Sugar, who returns to this new project as executive producer, alongside Steven Universe writer/EP and creator of OK K.O.! Let’s Be Heroes, Ian Jones-Quartey.

Per the announcement: 

Steven Universe: Lars of the Stars explores the past, present and future of the Steven Universe universe. The sequel series follows Lars Barriga, eternal teenager and space outlaw, as he and his pirate crew smuggle contraband, evade the authorities, and uncover the darkest secrets of the fallen Gem Empire.

Additionally, it was announced that Teen Titans Go!, the longest running animated series in DC history, has been renewed for a 10th season on Cartoon Network. The show last Fall celebrated its epic 400th episode. Executive Producers are Luke Cormican, Peggy Regan and Sam Register.

Robin, Starfire, Cyborg, Beast Boy and Raven continue the fun with all-new comedic adventures, giving viewers a look at what life is really like as a teen super hero…once the cape comes off. Inspired by and featuring the principal voice cast of the original Teen Titans series, this character-driven comedy — based upon DC characters — focuses on the funny that happens in between saving the world and living together as teenagers without adult supervision.

Anime-Inspired ‘Miraculous’ Spinoff ‘Miraculous Stellar Force’ Acquired By Disney With A 2025 Special And 2027 Series Launch Planned

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Disney Branded Television has officially acquired “Miraculous Stellar Force,” marking a major expansion of the globally popular “Miraculous” franchise. Announced just ahead of the Annecy International Animated Film Festival, the new series is scheduled to premiere in 2027 on Disney Channel and Disney+.

“Miraculous Stellar Force” will be the franchise’s first original spin-off and promises a fresh, dynamic experience that blends high-stakes action, kung fu comedy and heartwarming storytelling, all in a hand-drawn 2D format inspired by Japanese anime. Created by Thomas Astruc, the original creator of “Miraculous – Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir,” the new series swaps Paris for Tokyo, introducing fans to an entirely new team of culturally diverse young superheroes.

Set at an international school in the Japanese capital, “Miraculous Stellar Force” follows 12 students who discover they are guardians of the Stellar Matrix, a fractured ancient cosmic weapon. Under the leadership of Miki, Mayotte and Yu Lu, these heroes must overcome personal differences and chaotic friendships to face formidable galactic villains such as the revenge-driven Modeler and the ominous force known as The Supreme.

Ahead of the full series release, fans will get their first taste of the new universe with the premiere of “Miraculous World: Tokyo Stellar Force” later this year. This one-hour special event spans Paris and Tokyo, and features beloved characters Marinette and Kagami as they help unite a new generation of Tokyo-based heroes.

“With ‘Stellar Force,’ we’re expanding the ‘Miraculous’ universe in bold and exciting directions, with a completely new team, setting and mythology, while staying true to the values that made ‘Miraculous’ a global phenomenon,” said Andy Yeatman, CEO of Miraculous Corp. USA and Global Operations. “Kids around the world will see themselves reflected in these diverse, relatable heroes navigating friendship, identity and teamwork amidst epic cosmic stakes. With its blend of action and comedy and unforgettable characters, ‘Stellar Force’ is a fresh take on what it means to be a hero and perfectly positioned to become an instant classic.”

Heath Kenny, chief content officer at Miraculous Corp, added, “With its dynamic mix of thrilling action, martial arts, heartfelt character arcs, comedy and stunning views of Tokyo, ‘Miraculous Stellar Force’ reinvents the anime superhero genre with style and substance. As the friendship between the teens grows, so does their strength as a team, a powerful reminder that true strength comes not just from power, but from the bonds we build along the way.”

This latest addition marks a new chapter for the “Miraculous” brand, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its award-winning content, now spanning television, film, digital media, merchandise and more.

Mr. Crocodile: Nickelodeon Acquires Brand-New Animated Series

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Nickelodeon announced the acquisition of Mr. Crocodile, a brand-new animated kids' series, based on the beloved French children’s book Monsieur Crocodile a Beaucoup Faim (Mister Crocodile is Very Hungry) by best-selling author Joann Sfar, published by Gallimard. Produced by Joann Sfar’s Magical Society and distributed by Mediawan Kids & Family, with the participation of Nickelodeon and France Télévisions, the series will air globally on Nick Jr. channels, and on France Télévisions in France.

Mr. Crocodile follows the toothy, loveable Mr. Crocodile, alongside his best friend Daisy, as he cheerfully navigates life with boundless enthusiasm and comical misunderstandings due to his instinctive crocodile logic. New to a diverse and lively mobile home community, Mr. Crocodile lives with Daisy, and they split their time between her Mom and her Dad’s homes. Together, they turn everyday activities into zany adventures as they share an unconditional acceptance of each other's approach to life.

“Nickelodeon is continuing the legacy of beloved kids' stories with the acquisition of Mr. Crocodile," said Layla Lewis, Senior Vice President, Global Acquisitions and Content Partnerships, Nickelodeon. "This delightful series brings the charm and adventure of Joann Sfar's original book to a new generation of viewers, emphasizing our commitment to delivering engaging and entertaining content for kids. We can't wait for audiences to join Mr. Crocodile and Daisy on their fun-filled adventures."

“We are delighted to collaborate with Nickelodeon to introduce Mr. Crocodile to audiences around the globe. Joann Sfar’s Magical Society has assembled an exceptional international team of passionate talent to bring to life this innovative story, conceived by one of France’s most creative and prolific artists. We are confident that the show will captivate and inspire children everywhere,” says Julien Borde, President of Mediawan Kids & Family.

“Joann and I are thrilled to launch Mr. Crocodile, our first CGI series based on Joann’s iconic book, through Magical Society, the studio we founded together. Our teams have done an incredible job adapting Joann’s characters and universe into stunning 3D designs, while staying true to his whimsical and mischievous universe. It was deeply moving to see Mr. Crocodile, Daisy, and all their friends come to life for the very first time. We are incredibly proud and grateful to have our friends and partners at Nickelodeon, France Télévisions, and Mediawan Kids & Family on board for this wonderful adventure. With their support, the brand will shine, and Joann’s beloved characters will enchant children around the world,” adds Aton Soumache, Magical Society Co-Founder and Producer.

Monsieur Crocodile a Beaucoup Faim is a beloved French children's book written by New York Times bestselling author Joann Sfar. Published by Gallimard, the story follows the adventures of a hungry crocodile who sets out to find something to eat, encountering unique challenges along the way. The book is a cherished favorite among children and parents alike, known for its charming illustrations and humorous narrative. For the past 30 years, Joann Sfar has created universes of fantastical worlds and magical characters, his works spanning comic books, novels, series, films that reach a worldwide audience. Sfar is also known for his bestselling illustrated book Little Vampire and for his adaptation of the French literary classic, The Little Prince.

Mr. Crocodile was developed by Simon Nicholson and Joann Sfar, and is directed by Fabien Brandily. Rachel Lipman serves as Executive Producer alongside producers Aton Soumache, Joann Sfar, Rachel Lipman, and Cédric Pilot. Max Goodman and Lynsey O'Callaghan serve as the Executives in Charge for Nickelodeon.

Iyanu Premieres On Showmax With All-Nigerian Voice Cast

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The animated series Iyanu will make its African debut on Showmax starting on June 13, 2025. It will feature an impressive lineup of Nigerian voice actors, including Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Serah Johnson, Stella Damasus, and Shaffy Bello.

The show follows the story of a brave young orphan living in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland. When danger arises, she unwittingly activates divine powers that have been dormant since the Age of Wonders. With the help of her adventurous friend Biyi, voiced by Okey Jude, and the bookish Toye, played by Samuel Kugbiyi, Iyanu embarks on a journey to confront the evil threatening her community. They are joined by a magical leopard named Ekun, adding to the excitement of their adventure.

Iyanu has already made waves in the United States since its launch on Cartoon Network in April 2025. It has received critical acclaim and considerable viewership, ranking number one on the network and within the top 10 for kids and family series on Max. Screen Rant lauded it as “The Last Airbender and Black Panther hybrid you didn’t know you needed,” emphasising its innovative fusion of African mythology and contemporary superhero themes.

Adapted from the graphic novel Iyanu: Child of Wonder by Nigerian creator Roye Okupe, the animated series has captured audiences worldwide. Okupe expressed his excitement for the African premiere, emphasising the importance of representation in superhero narratives. “To see Iyanu launching on Showmax across 44 African countries is truly a full-circle moment,” he said.

Iyanu showcases the rich tapestry of Nigerian culture, music, and mythology and highlights the universal appeal of superhero stories. It invites viewers of all ages to connect with a hero who looks and feels like them. The series promises a magical journey of self-discovery and adventure for audiences throughout Africa and beyond.

Zee TV Africa To Undergo Another Rebrand

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ZEE Entertainment Enterprises (ZEE) has announced a significant strategic shift, rebranding itself as a—Content and Technology Powerhouse. The company unveiled a new brand identity, symbolised by a dynamic ‘Z’ logo, at the ZEE Cine Awards 2025. This transformation signals a clear intent to integrate technology across its content creation, distribution, and monetization strategies, aiming for enhanced performance and profitability.

According to a company statement, in line with its futuristic approach, Z is taking steps forward to realize its long-term growth aspirations centered around enhanced performance and profitability. The company will identify and create value-accretive opportunities that seamlessly amalgamate technology across all functions, including content creation, distribution and monetization.

The statement read, “As part of this strategic transformation, the company unveiled a new and dynamic brand universe for its next phase of growth, reflecting its bold ambitions for the future, sharp focus on achieving the targeted goals and its unwavering commitment to constantly innovate and deliver value to all stakeholders. As the first truly Indian brand operating globally, the cutting-edge look and feel of ‘Z’ symbolizes the young, emerging India and its bold aspirations for the future.”

ZEE's new brand promise, "Yours Truly, Z," emphasizes a commitment to its stakeholders, particularly viewers and employees. In a letter shared by the company, ZEE pledged to deliver more impactful and engaging entertainment experiences.

The company has also defined its core brand pillars. Its purpose is stated as "to enrich the lives of people around the world by creating extraordinary moments, which celebrate the power of optimism and togetherness." The vision is "to bring about a positive change in people’s lives through purposeful entertainment," and the mission is "to consistently strive towards creating value for all our stakeholders, with a sharp focus on keeping our consumers entertained and informed through world class infotainment platforms." These statements will guide the company's strategic decision-making moving forward.

Sharing his thoughts on the new brand universe, Punit Goenka, CEO, ZEEL said, “As we embark on a phase of growth backed by a robust focus on content and technology, the new look envisioned for the company is futuristic, dynamic and agile; which is a firm representation of our team’s capabilities to capitalize on the emerging opportunities. It also reflects our commitment to embrace emerging technologies to enhance the overall consumer experience. The new brand universe underscores our bold spirit and resolve to remain agile and adaptive in a fast-evolving landscape.”

The company has also defined its core brand pillars. Its purpose is stated as "to enrich the lives of people around the world by creating extraordinary moments, which celebrate the power of optimism and togetherness." The vision is "to bring about a positive change in people’s lives through purposeful entertainment," and the mission is "to consistently strive towards creating value for all our stakeholders, with a sharp focus on keeping our consumers entertained and informed through world class infotainment platforms." These statements will guide the company's strategic decision-making moving forward.

Sharing his thoughts on the new brand universe, Punit Goenka, CEO, ZEEL said, “As we embark on a phase of growth backed by a robust focus on content and technology, the new look envisioned for the company is futuristic, dynamic and agile; which is a firm representation of our team’s capabilities to capitalize on the emerging opportunities. It also reflects our commitment to embrace emerging technologies to enhance the overall consumer experience. The new brand universe underscores our bold spirit and resolve to remain agile and adaptive in a fast-evolving landscape.”

Cartoon Network & Max Greenlight ‘Iyanu’ S2 Plus Two Movies

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Following the breakout first season, a second season of Lion Forge Entertainment’s Iyanu, the epic animated fantasy series inspired by Nigerian mythology, along with two feature films expanding its universe, have been greenlit by Cartoon Network and Max.

Based on the graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder by Roye Okupe, and produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, Iyanu follows a teenage orphan who discovers her divine powers and her destiny to save the ancient kingdom of Yorubaland.

“We’re incredibly inspired by the response to Iyanu and the connection it has made with audiences,” said David Steward II, CEO of Lion Forge Entertainment. “The opportunity to expand this world with a second season and two feature films is a testament to the power of meaningful storytelling and innovative creative collaboration. We’re grateful for the continued support of our partners at Cartoon Network and Max, and it’s been a lot of fun working with Roye to bring Iyanu to life and build the franchise.”

Okupe, who also serves as series creator, executive producer and showrunner, commented, “This is a huge win for Iyanu, Lion Forge Entertainment and YouNeek Studios fans around the world. The support for our show has been nothing short of humbling — and because of that incredible response, we now get to bring the next chapter of Iyanu’s story to life. I’m thrilled to continue expanding the world of Iyanu and the YouNeek YouNiverse, and to share this journey with audiences across the globe. This is just the beginning.”

Season 2 will return with 10 new episodes where we’ll see Iyanu continue to master her burgeoning powers as she finds herself in the midst of a fierce conflict between Elu and the People of the Deep, led by a new formidable opponent. With various factions of Yorubaland vying for powerful divine artifacts that have reemerged, Iyanu strives to find a way to end the war and restore peace. As Team Chosen reunites and tensions rise between old allies and foes, Iyanu must confront even more powerful threats from the Age of Wonders — including secrets buried deep within her own past.

The first of the planned animated film extensions, titled The Age of Wonders, is set to be released later this year. It will transport viewers 500 years before Iyanu’s rise, taking them to a thriving Yorubaland at the peak of its magical civilization. When the embodiment of the seven deadly sins threatens the world, Iyanu’s predecessors join forces with the Divine Ones to prevent the Age of Darkness.

The show’s executive producers are David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment, Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod. Iyanu was adapted from Okupe’s graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder by Youneek Studios and Dark Horse Comics.

Iyanu Season 2 will return to Cartoon Network and Max in 2026, followed by the second film currently in production.

Cartoon Network International Unveils Teaser Trailer And Logo For The Wonderfully Weird World Of Gumball

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Cartoon Network International has released a teaser trailer and logo for The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball, a continuation of the BAFTA Children’s, International Emmy, and Annie multi-award-winning series, The Amazing World of Gumball. Produced by Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe, The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball is set to launch later this year on Cartoon Network Africa and will stream on Hulu in the United States. 

 

Welcome back to Elmore, where the laws of reality are a joke, and family life is anything but ordinary. Whether he’s battling an evil fast-food empire, facing off against a sentient AI in love with his mom, or trying to stop Banana Joe from wearing pants — Gumball Watterson drags his brother Darwin, sister Anais, and the rest of the town of Elmore along for the ride. With even wilder stories, bigger twists, and surreal humor, the show is so amazing that they had to rename it! 

 

Created and executive produced by Ben Bocquelet,

The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball is a quarter-hour animated comedy series that blends an eclectic mix of media styles – including 2D & 3D animation, CGI, puppetry, photorealism and live action – into a wildly imaginative world defined by its vibrant visual style and sharp meta humour. Matt Layzell and Erik Fountain serve as Executive Producers and Series Directors. The Composer for the series is Xav Clarke and Joe Sparrow serves as Art Director. The stellar voice cast includes Alkaio Thiele as Gumball, Hero Hunter as Gumball’s younger brother Darwin, Kinza Syed Khan as younger sister Anais, Teresa Gallagher as his mother Nicole, and Dan Russell as his father Richard, and many more. 

 

Creator and Executive Producers Ben Bocquelet, Matt Layzell and Erik Fountain say:

“What an amazing opportunity to play with these characters again! Fans can look forward to plenty more antics and misadventures in Elmore because Gumball and Darwin haven’t grown up much since we last saw them…we haven’t either.” 

 

Vanessa Brookman, Warner Bros Discovery, GM, International Kids, Animation and Franchise says: “We thought it was about time that Gumball and the rest of the gang woke up from their catnap, to do what they do best, and delight more fans with more distinctive humour, visual inventiveness and wild adventures. Guided by the immense talents of Ben, Matt, Erik and team, the new series continues Gumball’s legacy as one of the most iconic, groundbreaking and beloved Cartoon Network shows of all time.” 

Disney Channel Acquired Broadcasting Rights To Miraculous Chibi, Scheduled For 2026

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Miraculous Corp has locked down a launch plan for Miraculous Chibi that will see its new take on flagship series Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir roll out on YouTube first in Q4, and then on Disney Branded TV platforms and France’s TF1 in 2026. 

Aimed at five to 11s, this 52 x three-minute spinoff (pictured) is banking on “wildly expressive” non-verbal humor to drive the action for a set of superhero protagonists who have been reimagined in a distinctive Japanese art style called chibi, which gives characters smaller features and exaggerated cuteness. 

The new treatment—which was teased by Miraculous Corp CEO Andy Yeatman at a MIP Junior presentation last fall—is a longer-form expansion of a previous miniseries called Miraculous Zag Chibi that launched in 2018. It featured 90-second chibi-style clips that have since generated more than 650 million YouTube views. With a similarly snackable format and digital-first rollout, Miraculous Chibi is positioning itself to reach the same online audience first before making its way onto linear platforms.  

Miraculous Corp’s strategy borrows a page from Disney, which has given many of its legacy TV characters the chibi treatment in recent years. Disney TV Animation launched a Chibi Tiny Tales shorts series in 2020 that went on to spawn long-form spinoff The Chibiverse two years later.