Netflix Reviving A Different World

Netflix is reviving the ’90s sitcom A Different World with the order of a new sequel series centered on Deborah Wayne, with Felicia Pride (Grey’s Anatomy, Bel-Air) as showrunner and executive producer.

Debbie Allen, who served as producer for 122 episodes and directed 83 of the original run, is returning as executive producer and will direct three episodes. Tony winner Maleah Joi Moon (Hell’s Kitchen) will star as Deborah, the well-intentioned but rebellious youngest child of Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert.

“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,” Pride said. “I am so proud of the work we’re doing to reimagine A Different World for beloved fans and new generations alike.”

“There couldn’t be a better time than now to reboot A Different World,” Allen commented. “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.”

The series will follow as Deborah enters her freshman year at her parents’ HBCU alma mater, Hillman College. She sets out to build her own legacy beyond the shadow of her parents.

Joining Moon in the cast are Alijah Kai (Everybody Hates Chris), Chibuikem Uche (One Of Us Is Lying), Cornell Young IV (Doing Life), Jordan Aaron Hall (The Idea of You) and newcomer Kennedi Reece.

Reggie Rock Bythewood (Get on the Bus, Swagger) and Gina Prince-Bythewood (The Woman King, Love & Basketball), writers from the original series, are returning as executive producers alongside Mandy Summers (That ’90s Show, The Pradeeps of Pittsburgh) and Tom Werner (The Connors, Rosanne, A Different World).

“A Different World changed everything for us,” said the Blythewoods, who have been married since 1998. “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.”

A Different World originally ran for six seasons on NBC from 1987 to 1993.