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The new freshman class of Hillman College just gave Jasmine Guy her flowers — and the moment happened right here in Atlanta.
Netflix dropped an emotional clip this week of the incoming cast of its A Different World sequel surrounding Guy with white roses, hugs, and words of gratitude. Guy, who created the iconic Southern belle Whitley Gilbert-Wayne, is visibly moved, dabbing her eyes as the young actors tell her she is “such a light,” that her energy on set matters every day, and that they love her.
The video captures more than a nice on-set surprise. It is a passing of the torch that unfolded on the real campuses that helped inspire the original show — and now serve as its new home.
Hillman, rebuilt in the Atlanta University Center
The sequel, which premieres September 24, 2026 — exactly 39 years after the original series debuted — follows Deborah Wayne (Tony winner Maleah Joi Moon), the youngest daughter of Whitley and Dwayne Wayne. She arrives at Hillman as a free-spirited artist trying to step out of her parents’ long shadow.
This time, Hillman is not a soundstage recreation. Production filmed across the Atlanta University Center — Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College — from February through May 2026. “Hillman College” signs went up on the Clark Atlanta campus last year, and university president George T. French Jr. called the sight “beautiful.”
Showrunner Felicia Pride, who lives in Atlanta, said shooting at the AUC gave the series texture the original multi-camera sitcom could never achieve. About 59 to 70 percent of the background performers are actual HBCU students or alumni from those schools. Guy herself noted the excitement on set: “All these young people are so excited to be a part of the show.”
The original series used some Spelman exteriors, but the new version lives on those quads, in those cafeterias, and among the students who walk those paths every day
Why Atlanta was the only choice
Atlanta has long been the “Hollywood of the South,” and this production leaned into that identity in a way that feels personal. The original A Different World is credited with helping boost HBCU enrollment by 26 percent during its run. Bringing the sequel to the AUC — the same cluster of schools that influenced the writers decades ago — closes a circle.55
Pride and executive producer Debbie Allen (who directed the original series and helms three episodes of the new one, including the premiere) wanted authenticity over nostalgia. The result is a single-camera show that can actually show campus life instead of suggesting it. Local extras, local talent, and the daily rhythm of Atlanta’s HBCU community are baked into the production.
Guy has stayed connected to the city. The original cast launched its 2024 HBCU tour at the Atlanta University Center. She recently led an acting masterclass in Atlanta tied to the new series. The city that helped shape Hillman on screen is now shaping its next chapter in real life.
The new class and the legends in the room
In the Netflix video, the freshmen — including Moon as Deborah, Alijah Kai as Rashida, Cornell Young IV as Shaquille (Ron Johnson’s son), Jordan Aaron Hall as Amir, Kennedi Reece as Hazel, and Chibuikem Uche as Kojo — stand around Guy and other returning originals. Cree Summer (Freddie), Charnele Brown (Kimberly), and others appear to be there as well, holding flowers of their own.
The scene is exactly what the show has always been about: one generation seeing itself in the last and choosing to honor it while they’re still here.
A Different World returns to Netflix on September 24. For Atlanta, it already feels like homecoming. The flowers were given on set. The real gift is that Hillman is back on the campuses that helped make it matter in the first place.
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Melody Holt — now professionally known as Melody Shari — dropped a splashy arrival video just as The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 18 cameras were set to roll.
The clip shows the entrepreneur and former Love & Marriage: Huntsville star dancing in a white crop top and denim mini-skirt beside a massive LED truck playing footage of herself. The timing was unmistakable: filming for the next RHOA season was expected to begin the following day.
Melody Holt: From Huntsville to Atlanta
Holt first became a reality TV fixture on OWN’s Love & Marriage: Huntsville, a series she helped bring to life. After nine seasons she stepped away in 2025, citing a desire to protect her peace and focus on businesses that include Seventh Avenue Beauty, production company Tilted Crowns, and Nubian TV. She now lives in Atlanta.
This is not her first brush with Bravo. Years earlier, she and then-husband Martell Holt were approached about RHOA. He later said they declined because he wanted to protect their marriage. The marriage ended anyway; the RHOA invitation never quite disappeared from fan conversation.
Connections Already in Place
Holt has been building quiet ties to the current RHOA circle. She has collaborated with Drew Sidora on a luxury beauty line and appeared in events alongside Cynthia Bailey and others in Atlanta’s social scene. Fans have floated her name as a “friend of” or even a peach holder for months.
Keep up with Season 17:
- RHOA’s Drew Sidora Flaunts Her New Body
- Fireworks Fly in RHOA Season 17, Episode 10
- RHOA Season 17, Episode 8 Brings the Drama
Andy Cohen, speaking in early August 2026, indicated he was happy with the Season 17 group and suggested they would return for Season 18, shutting down other casting rumors. That does not rule out a new friend-of role or a late addition once cameras start rolling. RHOA has a long history of folding in Atlanta personalities mid-season when the chemistry feels right.
What She Would Bring
Holt is a practiced reality player: strategic, camera-ready, and comfortable turning personal chapters into business. She left LAMH as a polarizing but ratings-savvy presence and has spent the last year positioning herself as a producer and brand builder rather than a full-time cast member. An RHOA appearance would give her a bigger platform without requiring her to live the same high-conflict life she recently walked away from.
Whether Bravo ultimately gives her a peach, a recurring friend-of slot, or simply lets the viral video do its work remains to be seen. What is clear is that she wanted viewers — and the production — to know she is in Atlanta and ready the moment filming begins.
Season 18 cameras are now rolling. The question is how quickly Melody Holt appears in the footage.
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The Real Housewives of Atlanta drama never really stays on the stage. Even after leaving the show, Kandi Burruss found herself pulled back into the mix when K. Michelle’s “Mean Girls of Atlanta” remark during the Season 17 reunion started circulating—and Kandi isn’t holding her tongue.
During Part 1 of the RHOA Season 17 reunion, Shamea Morton explained that certain women in her circle (referencing Kandi and others) weren’t thrilled about her growing close to K. Michelle. K. Michelle’s response? A pointed “The Mean Girls of Atlanta.” While she didn’t name Kandi directly, the timing and context left little room for interpretation in many viewers’ eyes—and clearly in Kandi’s.
Kandi Responds to K. Michelle’s Mean Girls of Atlanta Comment
Kandi addressed the shade head-on during an appearance on The Big Tigger Morning Show. When co-host Francesca Amiker brought up the reports that K. Michelle had labeled her a “mean girl,” the longtime RHOA alum kept it straightforward:
“I personally feel that mean girls can’t call other girls mean girls. It doesn’t work like that,” Kandi said. She added that if she’s being called a mean girl, then K. Michelle has been one too, pointing out the singer’s history of going after people on camera, calling them out of their names, and more. “If I’m a mean girl, she was a mean girl, too.”
Kandi also clarified her personal approach: “If you are not nice to me, I am not nice to you.” She described herself as a straightforward Taurus who matches energy rather than seeking out conflict.
The clip of her response quickly spread across X (including the one shared by accounts like @TheRhoaTalk), reigniting talk of the longstanding friction between K. Michelle and parts of Atlanta’s entertainment circle.
K. Michelle’s response and the deeper history
K. Michelle wasted little time firing back on X. She denied ever calling Kandi a mean girl specifically, writing that she’s “been calling the same two girls mean girls for years”—widely understood by fans to refer to longtime points of tension with Rasheeda Frost and Toya Wright (both connected to the broader Atlanta scene and Kandi’s orbit).
She didn’t stop there, throwing additional shade at the morning show host with a jab about someone allegedly calling Kandi “Tigger’s side piece.”
This latest exchange isn’t coming out of nowhere. The underlying issues between K. Michelle and Kandi’s circle stretch back years in Atlanta’s music and reality TV world. Kandi has long been known for her loyalty to her friends, including Rasheeda, with whom K. Michelle has had public and private clashes. Earlier in Season 17, tensions flared when Shamea left a hangout with K. Michelle to meet Kandi—without inviting the new Housewife—prompting questions about why certain doors stayed closed. Shamea later noted Kandi’s fierce loyalty as a factor.
Fans have also pointed to older drama involving mutual acquaintances and public accusations that have kept the sides from fully aligning. While Kandi and K. Michelle have both spoken respectfully of each other’s music careers at times, the personal and social circles have remained complicated.
For now, Kandi has made her position clear without diving into a full-blown war of words: energy gets matched, and labels like “mean girl” cut both ways. With the RHOA reunion still fresh and K. Michelle continuing to address the fallout, this chapter of Atlanta drama shows no signs of quieting down anytime soon.
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Netflix has officially unveiled the first-look photos for its sequel series to the beloved 1980s/90s sitcom A Different World, offering fans a vibrant glimpse of both the new generation of Hillman College students and the returning original cast members. The 10-episode series, which wrapped this spring, is set to premiere on Thursday, September 24, 2026—exactly 39 years after the original show’s debut on NBC.
The Story Continues at Hillman
Filmed in Atlanta, the new series centers on Deborah Wayne (played by Tony Award winner Maleah Joi Moon), the lovingly sheltered youngest daughter of Whitley Gilbert and Dwayne Wayne. Described as a free spirit with a flair for the spotlight, a big heart, and a path she’s still figuring out, Deborah navigates life at the iconic HBCU while surrounded by a diverse new ensemble that reflects the breadth of Black life on campus.
Joining her are:
- Rashida Duvall (Alijah Kai) — a first-generation criminal justice major.
- Shaquille Johnson (Cornell Young IV) — a five-star athlete embracing legacy.
- Amir Rodale (Jordan Aaron Hall) — a sharp psychology major who excels at helping others but struggles with his own issues.
- Hazel Henry (Kennedi Reece) — a church-raised small-town girl defining her own values.
- Kojo Achebe (Chibuikem Uche) — a Ghanaian-Nigerian fashion entrepreneur finding his courage.
The series is created, showrun, written, and executive produced by Felicia Pride, with Debbie Allen (a key producer and director from the original) serving as EP and director. Additional executive producers include Tom Werner, Reggie Rock Bythewood, Gina Prince-Bythewood, and Mandy Summers.
Returning Favorites
Seven beloved alumni are reprising their roles:
- Jasmine Guy as Whitley Gilbert
- Kadeem Hardison as Dwayne Wayne
- Cree Summer as Freddie Brooks
- Darryl M. Bell as Ron Johnson
- Charnele Brown as Kimberly Reese
- Jenifer Lewis as Dorothy Dandridge Davenport
- Jada Pinkett Smith as Lena James
The original A Different World aired for six seasons on NBC from 1987 to 1993. It began as a spin-off of The Cosby Show focused on Denise Huxtable (Lisa Bonet) before evolving into its own vibrant exploration of Black college life.
A Fresh Take on a Classic
While the original was a multi-camera sitcom filmed before a live studio audience, the sequel adopts a single-camera format without one. It’s billed as a “hopeful dramedy” that dives into the rituals, humor, and nuances of HBCU life, centering the richness and complexity of the Black experience.
Fans are already buzzing with excitement as these first-look images capture everything from campus parties and games to heartfelt moments and group hugs that feel both nostalgic and brand new.
Will you be tuning in when A Different World returns to Netflix this fall? The campus doors are reopening—class is officially back in session at Hillman.
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The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 17 reunion is officially in the books after the ladies gathered in New York City this week to film the highly anticipated special. With a season packed with shifting alliances, new cast energy, major personal drama, and a betrayal-filled trip to Scotland, fans are bracing for one of the most confrontational reunions in recent RHOA history.
RHOA Reunion: Cast and Seating Arrangement
Season 17 features a refreshed lineup:
- Full-time Housewives: Phaedra Parks, Porsha Williams, Drew Sidora, Kelli Ferrell, Shamea Morton Mwangi, and Angela Oakley.
- New additions: Pinky Cole and K. Michelle.
- Friend of the Housewives: Cynthia Bailey.
- RHOA’s Drew Sidora Flaunts Her New Body
- Fireworks Fly in RHOA Season 17, Episode 10
- RHOA Season 17, Episode 8 Brings the Drama
An exclusive first look at the reunion seating chart (shared via Bravo) shows the cast arranged around Andy Cohen:
- One side of Andy: Porsha Williams, Angela Oakley, Drew Sidora, and Phaedra Parks.
- Other side: K. Michelle, Kelli Ferrell, Shamea Morton Mwangi, and Pinky Cole.
- Cynthia Bailey is positioned between Porsha and Angela.
This setup suggests natural groupings of allies and rivals, with plenty of room for cross-talk and heated exchanges. Porsha is widely expected to claim first chair given her central role in several major storylines.
Key Storylines and Feuds Heading into the Reunion
The reunion will revisit the season’s biggest moments and unresolved tensions. Here’s what to watch for:
Porsha Williams vs. Shamea Morton Mwangi
Their longtime friendship has imploded. The midseason trailer showed explosive arguments, including accusations that each other’s mothers were “lowdown dirty snakes.” Shamea was left devastated and in tears. Expect raw emotion, receipts, and questions about loyalty and betrayal.
Drew Sidora vs. K. Michelle
This feud has escalated with accusations of lying, hidden connections, and lack of accountability. Drew called out K. Michelle for allegedly knowing someone she claimed not to, leading to group-wide frustration. “No one’s gonna hold her accountable to her lies?” Drew asked at one point. This one is primed for a major showdown.
Porsha’s Personal Drama
Porsha confronted her ex-fiancé Dennis McKinley with the line, “You are the trauma — not the drama, the f—king trauma.” She’s also been navigating new romantic interests (including mentions of juggling a man and a woman) and a budding connection with Sway McKinney. Emotional moments and clarity-seeking conversations are likely.
- Porsha Hard-Launches New Girlfriend Sway McKinney
- 10 Best Porsha & Sway Moments
- Meet the Cast of RHOA Season
The Scotland Trip (Traitors-Inspired Getaway)
Phaedra hosted a group trip with The Traitors-style themes of loyalty, betrayal, and “who are the faithful and who are the traitors?” Expect discussions about lies, deceit, shifting alliances, and dramatic activities like tug-of-war and ghost hunting.
Other Spicy Accusations
Angela Oakley dropped claims that someone in the group was involved with an Atlanta Falcons player. Additional threads include Kelli’s divorce (with Phaedra reportedly representing her), group factions (“Peaches” vs. others), and lingering issues from prior seasons that refuse to stay buried.
RHOA Reunion: What the Cast Is Saying
The women have shared their reunion mindsets:
- Shamea expects to be in the hot seat and vows not to let anyone talk over her or make false accusations.
- Pinky Cole (in her first reunion) is excited to be shady and let the world get to know her.
- Drew is ready to “get to the bottom of things.”
- Kelli hopes for clarity and resolution.
- Cynthia sees it as a chance for closure, apologies, and forgiveness.
RHOA Reunion: Format and Vibe
Given the volume of storylines and beefs, a multi-part reunion (likely 3–4 parts) is probable. Andy Cohen will moderate the chaos, pressing for receipts, accountability, and explanations. Expect tears, shade, glam fashion, and at least a few viral moments.
The reunion will deliver the signature RHOA mix of high drama, emotional breakthroughs, and unfiltered confrontations. With new faces like Pinky and K. Michelle bringing fresh perspectives and old bonds fracturing, nothing is off-limits.
RHOA Reunion Wraps: When will it air?
No official air date has been announced yet, but based on past seasons, expect it to premiere on Bravo in the weeks following the Season 17 finale (likely July 2026), with episodes streaming the next day on Peacock.
One thing is certain: This reunion is shaping up to be a peach-filled pressure cooker. Buckle up, Atlanta fans—the ladies are coming in hot.
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In the latest episode of her podcast Humble Brag with co-host Crystal Kung Minkoff, former Real Housewives of Atlanta star and current “Friend of” Cynthia Bailey dropped exciting updates on the future of the long-running Bravo series.
Cynthia Bailey Confirms RHOA Season 18 Casting Underway
The revelation has fans buzzing as the show rides a wave of renewed energy in Season 17.
Quick Turnaround for Reunion
Bailey revealed that filming for the Season 17 reunion is scheduled to begin in just two weeks. This relatively quick post-filming timeline underscores Bravo’s confidence in the current season, which premiered on April 5, 2026, and has delivered plenty of drama through group trips, feuds, and fresh dynamics among the cast.
Season 17 features returning peach holders Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Kelli Ferrell, Shamea Morton, and Angela Oakley, with newcomers like K. Michelle and Pinky Cole adding to the mix. Cynthia has been actively involved as a “Friend of,” appearing in episodes and stirring up her own moments, including pool house drama and calling out group tensions.
Casting for Season 18 Already in Motion
More significantly, Cynthia confirmed that casting for Season 18 is actively progressing. Bravo is reportedly scouting new talent while evaluating returns and potential status changes for the current lineup. This early start is typical for the franchise but signals that network executives are already planning ahead amid strong viewer interest.
Fan reactions are divided. Some want the current core cast—bolstered by Porsha and Phaedra’s returns—to stay intact and “marinate” for another season, while others are calling for big names like Kenya Moore, Nene Leakes, Kandi Burruss, or Shereé Whitfield to shake things up. Speculation is rampant about full-time upgrades, demotions, or “Friend of” roles for figures like Cynthia herself.
Cynthia’s Role and PerspectiveCynthia, a veteran of the series who has returned in a supporting capacity after previous full-time runs and breaks, shared insights into the current season’s filming experiences. She discussed watching dynamics unfold (including tensions involving Pinky, Angela, Kelli, and Shamea) and positioned herself as someone “not off limits” who can both give and receive “smoke” in the group.
Her podcast appearance comes as she balances reality TV with other ventures, including modeling, acting, and personal life updates. Co-hosting Humble Brag has given her a platform to reflect candidly on Housewives life while teasing what’s next.
What This Means for RHOA Fans
The confirmation points to a potentially transitional Season 18. With the reunion filming so soon, viewers can expect fireworks that will heavily influence casting decisions. Will Bravo double down on the revitalized energy from Porsha and Phaedra’s returns, or will legacy stars make comebacks? Early casting activity suggests the network is leaving doors open.
As one of the most iconic Housewives franchises, RHOA continues to evolve. Stay tuned—reunion episodes are likely to deliver the drama needed to set the stage for whatever comes in Season 18. Peaches, get ready!
This article is based on Cynthia Bailey’s statements on the Humble Brag podcast, as shared across social media and fan accounts on June 1, 2026.
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Rumor swirling around a potential new project spotlighting the ex-husbands of The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) have now been substantiated.
Peter Thomas, former husband of Cynthia Bailey and a familiar face from the long-running Bravo series, confirmed during a recent interview that he has officially signed on to Todd Tucker’s latest endeavor.
Peter Thomas Confirms Signing On to Todd Tucker’s New Reality Project Featuring Former ‘RHOA’ Husbands
The confirmation came in an exclusive conversation with Atlanta blogger and personality Michelle “ATLien” Brown.
Peter was candid about his involvement, stating he has already signed the necessary paperwork.
While he declined to reveal the full cast or extensive details, he emphasized his excitement and belief that the project “don’t make sense without him.”
Former RHOA Husbands Spinoff: What We Know About the Project
Todd Tucker, a producer and husband to RHOA star Kandi Burruss, has reportedly been developing a series centered on the men who were once married to Atlanta’s housewives. Speculation has included names like Apollo Nida, Bob Whitfield, Ralph Pittman, Mike Hill, and even Marc Daly. Peter noted that he couldn’t confirm who else has committed but affirmed his own participation.
According to Peter, the show is not designed as a messy tell-all aimed at dragging the women. Instead, it aims to give the men a platform to discuss how their time on RHOA impacted their lives — for better or worse — and to share their perspectives. Many of the husbands, he argued, have never truly had the chance to tell their side of the story.
Peter also touched on broader issues with how reality TV, particularly RHOA, has portrayed the men, especially Black men, often painting them in a negative light as “deadbeats” or recipients of handouts. He suggested that production sometimes sets participants up for public struggles to boost ratings.
Todd Tucker’s Expanding Empire
This project aligns with Todd Tucker’s broader ambitions. Reports indicate he is also launching his own streaming network, with multiple new shows in development. Peter praised Todd and Kandi as smart, hardworking entrepreneurs who excel at turning opportunities into revenue streams.19
In addition to the Tucker project, Peter revealed he is involved in another reality series with former Real Housewives of New Jersey husband Joe Giudice. That show, reportedly titled A Shift, focuses on themes of redemption, accountability, mental health, and rebuilding after public setbacks.2
Former ‘RHOA’ Husbands Spinoff: Fan Reactions
The news has generated significant buzz in RHOA fan communities, with many speculating about potential cast members and whether the series will air on Tucker’s streaming platform or elsewhere. Some view it as a chance for the men to reclaim their narratives, while others see it as another spin-off in the ever-expanding Housewives universe.0
As of now, no official release date or network details have been announced. However, with Peter Thomas locked in and Todd Tucker at the helm, this project is already shaping up to be one of the more intriguing developments for RHOA fans in 2026.
Stay tuned for updates as more details emerge — the ex-husbands of Atlanta may soon be stepping back into the spotlight. #RHOA
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ATLANTA — Production has officially wrapped on Netflix’s highly anticipated sequel to the beloved 1980s sitcom A Different World, with filming taking place in Atlanta.
The new series returns to the fictional historically Black college (HBCU) Hillman College, following the lives and adventures of a fresh generation of students navigating campus life in the 21st century.
Filming Ends for A Different World in Atlanta
Like the original show, it will explore themes of friendship, growth, and the unique experiences of college at an HBCU.
The story centers on Deborah, the rebellious daughter of original characters Whitley Gilbert and Dwayne Wayne.
She is portrayed by Hell’s Kitchen alum Maleah Joi Moon, while Jasmine Guy and Kadeem Hardison reprise their iconic roles as her parents. The 10-episode comedy series follows Deborah and her friends as they face new challenges on a modern college campus.
Debbie Allen, who directed 83 episodes of the original series and served as its primary director from 1989 to 1993, returns as both a director and executive producer.
Filming signs for “Hillman College” appeared around Clark Atlanta University last July, sparking excitement on the real HBCU campus. Clark Atlanta University President George T. French Jr. shared his enthusiasm at the time, noting how meaningful it was to see the iconic signs on campus.
“I was ecstatic because I was raised during that period, getting ready to go to college,” French said. “To now be on the campus of Clark Atlanta University and to see these Hillman signs, it’s beautiful.”
The original A Different World, which aired from 1987 to 1993, is credited with helping boost HBCU enrollment by 26% during its run. French expressed hope that the new series will continue to inspire young people to consider HBCUs.
“We are growing, busting at the seams, and it really all goes back to intentional efforts like ‘A Different World,’” he said.
Local fans and alumni echoed the sentiment. One Clark Atlanta University graduate described the original show as groundbreaking for showing Black students pursuing careers in engineering, medicine, and the arts.
“It’s still relevant, and it’s going to be relevant forever,” she said.
Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Film and Entertainment Director Cardellia Hunter also credited the series with influencing her own path: “I grew up on ‘A Different World,’ which prompted me to go to Grambling State University, a HBCU.”
Netflix has not yet announced a release date for the sequel series. Additional cast members, including Cliff “Method Man” Smith, have joined the project as production concluded.
This reboot arrives more than three decades after the original series ended, bringing nostalgia for longtime fans while introducing Hillman College to a new audience.
There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.
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Atlanta’s Real Housewives of Atlanta scene just got a fresh dose of uncharted territory—and fans can’t stop talking about it.
Porsha Williams, the beloved (and often controversial) RHOA star, has officially introduced her new girlfriend, Patrice “Sway” McKinney, to the world—and to the peach-holding cast—in the early episodes of Season 17.
Porsha Williams & Patrice ‘Sway’ McKinney on RHOA Season 17: Atlanta’s Reality TV Power Couple Takes Center Stage
The hard launch came in November 2025 when Porsha posted a series of intimate birthday photos of the couple in front of a towering Christmas tree, captioning it with love and celebration.
Since then, the pair has been inseparable: from a romantic Los Cabos New Year’s getaway (quickly dubbed “Swaycation” by fans) to a steamy Bali trip that had Bravolebrities like Kandi Burruss dropping fire emojis in the comments.
Who Is Patrice ‘Sway’ McKinney? Atlanta Entrepreneur and Salon Suite Queen
Patrice “Sway” McKinney—known professionally as Sway The Pro—is far from a reality TV newcomer. The Michigan native moved to Atlanta in 2008 chasing bigger opportunities.
A licensed master barber-stylist, she founded Encore Salon Suites, one of the first Black-owned salon suite franchises in the city.
With multiple locations across Atlanta (including West Midtown and Marietta) and a booming coaching business, Sway mentors aspiring beauty entrepreneurs on how to launch and scale profitable salon suite businesses.
She’s also a real estate developer and motivational speaker who turned down a pro basketball path to build her empire.
The couple actually met eight years ago but “circled the block” and reconnected in 2025 after Porsha finalized her divorce from Simon Guobadia in June.
In October, Porsha revealed on BravoCon she was dating both a man and a woman. By November, she chose Sway—and made it crystal clear on Instagram.
RHOA Season 17 Preview: ‘This Is My Lady Friend, Sway’
In the Season 17 preview for Episode 2 (which dropped earlier this month), Porsha brings Sway to a group event, casually introducing her as “my lady friend.”
The cast’s reactions are priceless—surprise, side-eyes, and a few supportive nods. In confessional, Porsha declares, “I am what you call dating. I am in uncharted waters. You can just call me Christopher Columbus.”
Porsha has been refreshingly open about her journey. On a recent Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, she gushed that Sway “lets me be me. We celebrate each other. We support each other. It’s just great.”
She’s also pushed back on labels, famously coining the playful term “Sway-sexual” while telling fans she’s “Porsha-sexual” first—exploring without pressure. “At this moment, I don’t mind if you want to call me a lesbian… I’m not offended by it at all,” she shared in a recent interview.
Engagement rumors (sparked by an obvious AI photo) were quickly shut down by both women in February 2026. They’re taking things at their own pace—and thriving.
Why This Storyline Matters for Atlanta Reality TV
Porsha Williams has always been a lightning rod on RHOA—fierce, funny, and unafraid to evolve in the public eye.
Her relationship with Sway brings a new layer of authenticity to the Atlanta franchise, which has long celebrated Black excellence, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. Sway’s success as a self-made Atlanta businesswoman adds even more local flavor to the mix.
Fans are eating it up. Social media is flooded with support (and the usual shade), with many praising Porsha for living her truth post-divorce.
As Season 17 continues to unfold, expect more date nights, cast dinners, and plenty of “Porsha is fluid” commentary from the ladies.
Porsha and Sway are proof that Atlanta’s reality TV scene isn’t just about drama—it’s about real evolution, real love, and real empire-building. Stay tuned to Bravo for the full peach-holding tea.
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Atlanta’s film industry is buzzing once again as production on Zatima Season 5 gets underway at Tyler Perry Studios.
The popular BET+ comedy-drama spin-off from Tyler Perry’s Sistas is set to film its highly anticipated new season right here in the heart of Georgia, continuing the city’s reputation as a premier hub for television production.
Zatima Season 5: Tyler Perry’s Hit BET+ Series Returns to Tyler Perry Studios with Star Cast
Fans of Zatima have been eagerly awaiting news about the upcoming season. Following the drama-filled Season 4 that premiered on BET+ in September 2025, the series is heading back to Atlanta for Season 5 filming, with cameras expected to roll starting this month at Tyler Perry Studios.
This marks yet another major win for local crews, extras, and the booming entertainment economy in metro Atlanta.
What to Expect from Zatima Season 5
Zatima, created, written, and directed by Tyler Perry, follows the turbulent relationship of Zac Taylor (Devale Ellis) and Fatima Wilson (Crystal Renee Hayslett).
The show blends heartfelt comedy with real-life relationship drama, family dynamics, and career struggles – all hallmarks of Perry’s signature storytelling. While plot details for Season 5 remain under wraps, viewers can expect more of the ups, downs, and surprising twists that have made Zatima a BET+ standout since its 2022 premiere.
en.wikipedia.orgThe series has built a massive following for its authentic portrayal of modern love, friendship, and personal growth, drawing loyal audiences who tune in weekly on BET+.
Where Zatima Is Filmed: Atlanta’s Tyler Perry Studios
As with previous seasons, Zatima Season 5 will be filmed entirely in Atlanta at Tyler Perry Studios – one of the largest production facilities in the country.
Atlanta casting call: Zatima is hiring for upcoming roles
The sprawling complex in southwest Atlanta has become synonymous with Perry’s empire, hosting hits like Sistas, The Oval, and now multiple seasons of Zatima. Local casting calls for extras have already circulated, giving Atlanta residents another chance to appear in the background of the hit show.
Georgia’s generous tax incentives and top-tier crew talent continue to attract projects like this, solidifying Atlanta’s spot as the “Hollywood of the South.”
Zatima Cast Members Returning for Season 5
The core Zatima cast is expected to return, bringing their undeniable chemistry back to screens:
- Devale Ellis as Zac Taylor – The charming yet flawed leading man navigating love and fatherhood.
- Crystal Renee Hayslett as Fatima Wilson – The strong, independent powerhouse at the center of every fan’s favorite couple.
- Nzinga Imani as Angela – Zac’s ex and a source of ongoing tension.
- Remington Hoffman as Bryce – Zac’s loyal friend and comic relief.
- Guyviaud Joseph as Tony – Part of the tight-knit circle adding depth to the group dynamics.
- Cameron Fuller as Nathan, Jasmin Brown as Deja, Ameer Baraka as Jeremiah, and Laila Odom round out the recurring ensemble that fans have grown to love. tvguide.com
No major new cast additions have been announced yet for Season 5, but Tyler Perry Productions often keeps surprises coming – stay tuned for updates.
Why Atlanta Fans Can’t Wait for Zatima Season 5 on BET+
With filming now underway in Atlanta, Zatima Season 5 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting releases of the year for BET+ subscribers.
The show’s success has not only boosted viewership but also put a spotlight on Atlanta’s diverse talent both in front of and behind the camera. Tyler Perry Studios continues to create opportunities that keep Georgia at the forefront of the entertainment world.
Keep checking back with us here at Atlanta Local News for the latest on Zatima Season 5 production updates, potential release windows on BET+, and any red-carpet events tied to Tyler Perry’s hit series.
Atlanta, your favorite couple Zac and Fatima are coming home – and the drama is just getting started!
Want more Tyler Perry news? Read our Tyler Perry casting guide for Atlanta roles.
