The Peach State’s vibrant film scene is getting a dose of HBCU magic as production crews for Netflix’s highly anticipated A Different World reboot descend on Atlanta this month.
After a successful pilot shoot over the summer, the sequel series—picking up the legacy of the iconic 1980s sitcom—begins principal photography on November 15, transforming historic Black colleges and universities into the bustling campus of Hillman College once more.
A Different World Filming in Atlanta
Fans of the original series, which chronicled the trials, triumphs, and laughter of Black college life from 1987 to 1993, have been buzzing since Netflix, which loves Atlanta, greenlit the 10-episode single-camera comedy earlier this year.
The reboot centers on Deborah Wayne (played by Tony-nominated newcomer Maleah Joi Moon), the sharp-witted youngest daughter of fan-favorite couple Whitley Gilbert-Wayne (Jasmine Guy) and Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison).
As Deborah navigates her freshman year at Hillman, the show promises to blend nostalgic callbacks with fresh takes on modern campus culture, friendship, and self-discovery
Who’s Been Cast in A Different World?
Pride, alongside returning heavyweights like director Debbie Allen—who helms the premiere episode—and writers Reggie Rock Bythewood and Gina Prince-Bythewood, is steering the series toward a February 2026 premiere.
“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 says in a Netflix article. “I am so proud of the work we’re doing to reimagine A Different World for beloved fans and new generations alike.”
Filming kicks off at Clark Atlanta University, site of the summer pilot, before moving to Morehouse College and other local gems like Spelman and Georgia State for exterior shots.
Production runs through late April, but November’s schedule is packed with key scenes capturing Hillman’s lively quad life—think step shows, dorm room heart-to-hearts, and those unforgettable cafeteria debates.
Local extras from Atlanta’s thriving theater scene are already lining up, with casting calls emphasizing diverse ATL talent.
The ensemble cast blends fresh faces with original stars, ensuring the spirit of Hillman endures. Joining Moon are Alijah Kai as the free-spirited Rashida, Chibuikem Uche as aspiring activist Kojo, Cornell Young IV as basketball hopeful Shaquille, Jordan Aaron Hall as tech-savvy Amir, and Kennedi Reece as fashion-forward Hazel.
Original cast members Guy, Hardison, Darryl M. Bell (Ron Johnson), and Cree Summer (Freddie Brooks) reprise their roles in recurring arcs, delighting longtime viewers.
Debbie Allen, whose choreography defined the original’s cultural footprint, teased more details in an Essence interview: “We’re bringing back the joy, the rhythm, the real talk. Atlanta’s got that soul—we’re just amplifying it for a new generation.”
For Atlantans, the reboot isn’t just entertainment—it’s an economic boost. The Georgia Film Office reports that Netflix projects like this inject millions into local businesses, from caterers in Southwest Atlanta to wardrobe houses in Midtown.
A recent cast reunion at Home Depot’s headquarters drew hundreds, sparking calls for pop-up watch parties across the city.
Final Word
As crews roll in this week, keep an eye out for Dwayne Wayne’s signature flip-up glasses on Peachtree Street. A Different World isn’t just returning—it’s reclaiming its spot as a love letter to Black excellence, filmed right in our backyard.
Stay tuned to Atlanta Entertainment Hub for on-set updates, cast sightings, and exclusive interviews. What’s your favorite A Different World moment? Drop it in the comments below!
With more than 1,000 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.
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Tee Johnson covers TV, film, and cultural happenings for AtlantaFi.com. Reach her at tjohnson@atlantafi.com.