Netflix has released the first look images for A Different World, the highly anticipated sequel series returning to Hillman College. The images offer the first glimpse at the new class of students alongside returning cast members ahead of the fall premiere. As we previously reported, the series filmed in Atlanta and brings together a new generation of Hillman students led by Maleah Joi Moon as Deborah Wayne, the youngest daughter of Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison) and Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy).
Showrunner Felicia Pride previously said in a statement, “It is such an honor to be a part of bringing back this iconic show, one that I grew up on and which had a profound impact on my life. I am so proud of the work we’re doing to reimagine A Different World for beloved fans and new generations alike.”
Executive producer and director Debbie Allen, who produced 122 episodes and directed 83 of the original run, previously said in a statement, “There couldn’t be a better time than now to reboot A Different World. Our show changed lives, tripled the enrollment of historically Black colleges and gave a strong voice and platform for Young Black America. The incredible fresh young talent we have discovered paired with the lovable audience favorite OGs makes this much-anticipated return a must-see on Netflix.”
Executive producers Reggie Rock Bythewood and Gina Prince-Bythewood previously said in a statement, “A Different World changed everything for us. It was where we got our start as writers and where we found each other. This show has always been a part of our love story. To return to Hillman now and help reimagine this world for a new generation feels like a continuation of that legacy — one rooted in love, purpose, and possibility.”
Who is in the new cast?
The new class at Hillman includes Moon as Deborah Wayne, Alijah Kai as Rashida Duvall, Cornell Young IV as Shaquille Johnson, Jordan Aaron Hall as Amir Rodale, Kennedi Reece as Hazel Henry and Chibuikem Uche as Kojo Achebe. Additional cast includes Cliff “Method Man” Smith as Coach Coles, Norman Nixon Jr. as Professor Baptiste, Tichina Arnold as Darlene Duvall and Raven Goodwin as Dr. Brooklyn Boyer, among others.
Legacy cast returning to Hillman includes Guy as Whitley Gilbert, Hardison as Dwayne Wayne, Cree Summer as Freddie Brooks, Darryl M. Bell as Ron Johnson, Jenifer Lewis as Professor Davenport, Dawnn Lewis as Jaleesa Vinson-Taylor, Glynn Turman as Colonel Bradford Taylor, Jada Pinkett Smith as Lena James and Charnele Brown as Dr. Kimberly Reese Boyer, among others.
Allen directs the premiere episode. Pride serves as creator, showrunner and executive producer alongside Allen, Tom Werner, Reggie Rock Bythewood, Gina Prince-Bythewood and Mandy Summers.
When does ‘A Different World’ premiere?
A Different World premieres Sept. 24 on Netflix with 10 episodes. All six seasons of the original series are currently streaming on Netflix.
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