Netflix is taking us back to Hillman College with an exciting new sequel to the iconic series “A Different World.” The streamer has officially greenlit the show after months of development.
Set at the same beloved fictional HBCU, the sequel introduces Deborah Wayne, played by Broadway’s Maleah Joi Moon, as the daughter of Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert. As Deborah begins her freshman year, she must balance the weight of her parents’ legacy with carving her own path.
“She sets out to build her own legacy – while having the time of her life – alongside a whole new generation of Hillman’s best and brightest,” reads the show’s official logline.
The fresh cast includes Alijah Kai, Chibuikem Uche, Cornell Young IV, Jordan Aaron Hall, and newcomer Kennedi Reece. Felicia Pride will lead the series as writer, executive producer, and showrunner, while Debbie Allen returns to direct and produce. It remains unclear which other OG’s from the original series will make an appearance.
“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,” said Pride. “I am so proud of the work we’re doing to reimagine ‘A Different World’ for beloved fans and new generations alike.”
Reggie Rock Bythewood and Gina Prince-Bythewood, who met while writing for the original series, are also executive producers.
