‘A Different World’ Sequel Gets Netflix Pilot Order

Netflix is set to shoot a pilot for a sequel to the 1987 sitcom A Different World, focusing on Dwayne and Whitley’s daughter at an HBCU. The project has been in development at Netflix since last

year, with the pilot being part of the process. The Different World sequel comes from writer/executive producer Felicia Pride and executive producers Debbie Allen, Mandy Summers, Tom Werner,

Gina Prince-Bythewood and Reggie Bythewood. Allen, Werner, Prince-Bythewood and Bythewood all worked on the original multi-camera series, a spinoff of The Cosby Show, which ran on NBC for

six seasons with Carsey-Werner producing.

The sequel will center on the couple’s youngest daughter, Deborah Wayne, who is now also attending an HBCU (It is unclear whether it will be Hillman, which was the initial idea). Casting is currently underway for Deborah as well as other students at the college, all aged 18-20.

As Deadline reported, the sequel was originally envisioned as single camera. It is unclear whether that has changed. Allen, who is slated to direct the pilot from a script by Pride, is well versed in both formats. The pilot is eying a June shoot in Atlanta, sources said.

Source: https://deadline.com/2025/03/a-different-world-sequel-pilot-netflix-1236353547/