Jada Pinkett Smith to Return as Lena James in New ‘A Different World’ Sequel
Jada Pinkett Smith will return to Netflix’s highly anticipated sequel of A Different World, reprising her role as Lena James. The announcement marks a significant moment for fans of the classic series.
Smith hinted at her involvement through an Instagram post on Wednesday, sharing a photo of her trailer with the caption, “She back 😜#ADifferentWorld✨.” Netflix later confirmed her return via their Instagram stories.
Joining Smith in the revival are original cast members Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Cree Summer, and Darryl M. Bell, who are also returning to reprise their roles.
The new series focuses on Deborah Wayne (Maleah Joi Moon), the youngest daughter of Dwayne Wayne (Hardison) and Whitney Gilbert (Guy). As she embarks on her freshman year at Hillman College, she aims to carve out her own identity while navigating the legacy of her famous parents.
Summer will return as Freddie Brooks, with Bell reprising his role as Ron “Ronaldus” Johnson. The new cast includes Alijah Kai as Rashida, Chibuikem Uche as Kojo, Cornell Young IV as Shaquille, Jordan Aaron Hall as Amir, and Kennedi Reece as Hazel.
The sequel is developed by Felicia Pride, Debbie Allen, and Mandy Summers, alongside Tom Werner, Gina Prince-Bythewood, and Reggie Bythewood. Allen, Werner, Prince-Bythewood, and Bythewood were all integral to the original series, which aired on NBC for six seasons under Carsey-Werner Productions. Bill Cosby created both iterations of the show.
