Fans of the classic sitcom A Different World have even more to celebrate: Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Cree Summer, and Darryl M. Bell are all set to reprise their iconic roles in a new A Different World spinoff coming to Netflix.
The original series, which aired from 1987 to 1993 as a spinoff of The Cosby Show and became one of the most influential portrayals of life at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) on television, continues its legacy with a fresh chapter that honors its roots while speaking to today’s audiences.
According to reports, the upcoming series will consist of ten half-hour episodes and stars Maleah Joi Moon as Deborah Wayne, the youngest daughter of Whitley Gilbert-Wayne and Dwayne Wayne. As Deborah arrives on campus for her freshman year at Hillman College, she must navigate the complexities of stepping out from under her parents’ legacy while forging her own identity.
In a significant nod to longtime fans, the show brings back several familiar faces from the original Hillman campus. Guy returns as Whitley Gilbert-Wayne, Hardison reprises Dwayne Wayne, Summer steps back into the free-spirited role of Freddie Brooks, and Bell once again plays Ron “Ronaldus” Johnson.
Behind the scenes, acclaimed showrunner Felicia Pride is leading the creative charge as both showrunner and executive producer. Legendary actor, producer, and director Debbie Allen, who was a driving force behind the original series, returns as executive producer and will direct several episodes, including the premiere.
The decision to bring back original cast members alongside a new generation of Hillman students bridges past and present, creating a sense of continuity that honors the original’s impact while expanding its relevance for a new audience. In addition to Moon, the series will also feature rising talent such as Alijah Kai, Chibuikem Uche, Cornell Young IV, Jordan Aaron Hall, and Kennedi Reece as part of the fresh Hillman cohort.
Producers and creators have emphasized that this new iteration is not a reboot, but rather a true continuation of the A Different World legacy, one that respects the history of the beloved characters while exploring storylines that reflect contemporary social and cultural realities.
