Netflix is bringing a new generation to Hillman with its highly anticipated A Different World sequel series, premiering September 24, 2026.
The 10-episode comedy will center on Deborah Wayne, the freshman daughter of fan favorites DeWayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert, as she begins her own college journey at Hillman. Maleah Joi Moon stars as Deborah, leading a new generation of students while plenty of familiar faces return to campus.
And when we say familiar, we mean it!
Original cast members Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Cree Summer, Darryl M. Bell, Charnele Brown, Jenifer Lewis and Jada Pinkett Smith are all slated to appear. Method Man is also joining the Hillman family as Coach Coles.
There’s plenty of original A Different World DNA behind the camera, too. Debbie Allen returns as an executive producer and will direct the premiere episode. Original writers Reggie Rock Bythewood and Gina Prince-Bythewood are also executive producers, with Felicia Pride serving as showrunner.
And you can’t go back to Hillman without that theme song!
Brandy is putting her own spin on the iconic A Different World theme, performing a newly reimagined version that will open each of the 10 episodes.
For a generation of viewers, A Different World was more than a sitcom. The show introduced millions to HBCU life, tackled real issues and made Hillman College feel like a place we all wanted to visit.
Now, almost 40 years after the original series debuted, class is back in session.
Are you ready to go back to Hillman?
A Different World premieres September 24 on Netflix.