Looks like class might be back in session at Hillman College!
Netflix has just greenlit a pilot for a sequel to the classic ’80s and ’90s sitcom A Different World, according to Deadline. While the cast isn’t set yet, they’re planning to start filming this summer to nail down the story’s vibe and characters.
For anyone who missed the original, A Different World started as a spin-off of The Cosby Show, following Denise Huxtable (played by Lisa Bonet) as she navigated college life at the fictional HBCU, Hillman College. After Bonet left the show following season one, the focus shifted to her friends and classmates, particularly the iconic relationship between Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy) and Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison). The show ran for six seasons from 1987 to 1993 and also starred Dawnn Lewis, Darryl M. Bell, Sinbad, Charnele Brown, Cree Summer, and Glynn Turman.
Back in August 2024, rumors swirled that a sequel could be in the works, possibly following Whitley and Dwayne as parents, raising their daughter. Now, Netflix’s new project is expected to center around that idea, with Whitley and Dwayne’s daughter, Deborah Wayne, potentially taking the lead. Felicia Pride, known for her work on Queen Sugar, Grey’s Anatomy, and Bel-Air, is writing and executive producing the pilot.
The original show’s behind-the-scenes legends will also be involved, including Debbie Allen, Tom Werner, Gina Prince-Bythewood, and Reggie Bythewood, which has fans excited for the return of the Hillman magic.
This is a bit of a departure for Netflix, which usually skips the pilot phase and goes straight to series. They’ve only ordered a pilot once before, for the comedy Little Sky (which didn’t get picked up). While they haven’t explained why they chose this route, starting with a pilot is often a way to test the waters before committing to a full series.
Filming is set to kick off in June, so it looks like the Hillman gang could be back sooner than we think!
