Netflix’s first season of the “A Different World” sequel brings original cast members back to Hillman, including Jada Pinkett Smith as Congresswoman Lena James. Kadeem Hardison’s Dwayne Wayne is thrust into the president’s role after a scandal shakes the HBCU.
Other original cast members back on screen include Jasmine Guy as Whitley, head of a cosmetics empire; Cree Summer as Hillman professor Freddie; and Charnele Brown as surgeon Kimberly. Dawnn Lewis and Glynn Turman also return as Jaleesa and Colonel Taylor.
Halle Berry’s Jaclyn, Lisa Bonet’s Denise and Sinbad’s Walter Oakes are referenced but do not appear on screen. Jaclyn’s son Shaquille is grieving her; Denise is identified as the mother of a central character and is back in contact with Dwayne. Walter is recalled through Hillman’s stadium and Jaleesa’s account of a past marital indiscretion involving him.
