Class is officially back in session.
Nearly 40 years after A Different World first premiered, Netflix is bringing the beloved sitcom back with a sequel series that premieres on September 24, 2026—exactly 39 years to the day after the original debuted on NBC. The first season will consist of 10 episodes and follows a new generation of students at the iconic Hillman College.
The new series centers on Deborah Wayne (Maleah Joi Moon), the daughter of Whitley Gilbert-Wayne and Dwayne Wayne, as she begins her freshman year at Hillman. Along the way, she’ll receive guidance from several familiar faces that longtime fans know and love.
Jasmine Guy Returns as Whitley Gilbert-Wayne
Jasmine Guy is officially returning as Whitley Gilbert-Wayne, one of the original series’ most beloved characters.
Now a mother, Whitley helps guide Deborah through college while once again walking the halls of Hillman College.
Kadeem Hardison Returns as Dwayne Wayne
Kadeem Hardison reprises his role as Dwayne Wayne, reuniting with Jasmine Guy for the sequel.
The fan-favorite couple’s relationship became one of television’s most memorable love stories, and the reboot explores the next chapter of their family’s journey.
Cree Summer Returns as Freddie Brooks
Cree Summer is back as Freddie Brooks, whose free-spirited personality made her one of Hillman’s most unforgettable students.
Her return reunites another key member of the original ensemble.
Darryl M. Bell Returns as Ron Johnson
Darryl M. Bell reprises his role as Ron Johnson, Dwayne’s longtime best friend and one of the series’ most recognizable characters.
Fans will finally learn what Ron has been up to since graduating from Hillman.
Charnele Brown Returns as Kimberly Reese
Charnele Brown is also returning as Kimberly “Kim” Reese, bringing another familiar face back to campus for the next generation of Hillman students.
Jada Pinkett Smith Returns as Lena James
Jada Pinkett Smith will reprise her role as Lena James, a character introduced during the later seasons of the original sitcom.
Her appearance adds another exciting reunion for longtime fans of the groundbreaking comedy.
A New Generation at Hillman
The sequel introduces several new students alongside Deborah, including Rashida, Shaquille, Hazel, Amir, and Kojo, while continuing the original series’ tradition of exploring friendship, identity, and life at an HBCU. Debbie Allen returns as an executive producer and directs the premiere episode, with Felicia Pride serving as creator and showrunner.
By blending legacy characters with a fresh ensemble, Netflix hopes to introduce A Different World to a new generation while honoring the groundbreaking series that inspired it.
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