“Jay Jay: The Chosen One” Animated Series to be Premiered on Showmax
Super Eagles of Nigeria legend, Austin “Jay Jay” Okocha is set to be the hero of an animated series titled “Jay Jay: The Chosen One.” The 13-episode series reimagines the childhood of Nigerian football legend Augustine “Jay Jay” Okocha, who played for the Nigerian national team between 1993 and 2006 and led the country to Olympic victory at the 1996 Atlanta games. Okocha also played in three FIFA World Cups and has become a celebrated football commentator.
Developed by streaming giants, Showmax, the life of Augustine, an 11-year-old kid who aspires to represent his school at a famous football competition with a squad made up of his ragtag bunch of friends, is followed in Jay Jay: The Chosen One. The show follows Jay Jay’s love for football and the animal kingdom, which grants him superpowers in exchange for his fight against unlawful poaching.
This delightful series will give Nigerian children of all ages the opportunity to see themselves represented in animated form which is positive, humorous and educational. It will enchant and motivate kids across our continent through fantasy adventures as well as the power of sport.
Speaking on the show, Okocha said, “I’m honoured to have an animated series that reimagines my childhood. Jay Jay: The Chosen One is going to bring back good childhood memories as well as inspire young children who have dreams to be football players. I’m excited about the show and grateful to Showmax and the production team who worked hard to bring it to life.”
The series is voiced by a talented Nigerian cast, including award-winning teen actor, Prince Unigwe (Glamour Girls, Samson in 2nd February), who voices the character of young Jay Jay; veteran actor Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki of Aki and PawPaw and Efe on Africa Magic Comedy series The Johnsons); Samuel Ajibola (Spiff on Africa Magic comedy series The Johnsons); pro-footballer turned actor, Eric Obinna; Tinsel actress Mena Sodje; upcoming actor Lexan Peters; and child actor Pamilerin Ayodeji (Daniella in The Father).
Yolisa Phahle, the CEO of Showmax speaking on the series said, “This is a show we believe will find audiences globally and shines the spotlight on yet another world-class African achiever that we hope will be enjoyed by kids and the entire family.’
The first installment of the 13-episode series will air on April 6, 2023, with new episodes every Thursday.
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