Netflix’s ‘A Different World’ Spinoff Pilot Casts Six Rising Stars: Meet the New Faces of Hillman

A Beloved Classic Gets a Fresh Chapter

Netflix is breathing new life into a beloved sitcom with its upcoming A Different World spinoff pilot — and it’s officially set its core cast. As nostalgia continues to shape today’s entertainment landscape, fans of the original 1987–1993 series are buzzing with excitement about this modern revival. Set to revisit the iconic Hillman College, the new show blends legacy characters with Gen Z perspectives. Now, with six talented actors cast as series regulars, the pilot is poised to capture both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.

Here’s everything you need to know about the cast, the creators behind the scenes, and what to expect from this eagerly anticipated reboot.

The New Cast: Meet the Fresh Faces of Hillman

Netflix has confirmed six series regulars for the spinoff pilot:

• Chibuikem Uche as Kojo

• Maleah Joi Moon as Deborah – reportedly the daughter of Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert

• Cornell Young as Shaquille

• Jordan Aaron Hall as Amir

• Alijah Kai Higgins as Rashida

• Kennedi McClure as Hazel

Each character brings unique energy and experiences to the Hillman College legacy, promising storylines that reflect today’s cultural conversations while honoring the show’s deep-rooted history in Black excellence and education.

Chibuikem Uche, Maleah Joi Moon, Cornell Young, Jordan Hall and Alijah Kai Higgins Getty Images/Courtesy/Getty via Deadline

Behind the Scenes: A Powerhouse Creative Team

The reboot is being spearheaded by Felicia Pride (Bel-Air, Grey’s Anatomy), who serves as writer, executive producer, and showrunner. She is joined by industry heavyweights like Debbie Allen, Gina Prince-Bythewood, and Reggie Bythewood, ensuring the show maintains its cultural authenticity and creative integrity.

Production is scheduled to begin in Atlanta on July 1, 2025, with high expectations surrounding the pilot’s tone and character dynamics.

What This Spinoff Means for Fans and the Industry

The original A Different World was groundbreaking in its portrayal of life at a historically Black college and its bold approach to social issues. This reboot aims to continue that legacy while modernizing the narrative for today’s audiences.

A New Era for Hillman College Begins

With Netflix at the helm, a diverse new cast, and an award-winning creative team, the A Different World spinoff is shaping up to be more than just a reboot — it's a cultural revival. As anticipation builds, fans can look forward to a fresh yet familiar world that reflects today’s realities while celebrating the trailblazing spirit of the original series.

Stay tuned for updates on the pilot premiere date and potential series launch. Are you ready to enroll at Hillman College all over again? Let us know in the comments!