Cree Summer Co Signs A Different World Newbies In Netflix Sequel

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THE INTERVIEW" and "THE MORNING HUSTLE" visible.

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‘A Different World’ Cast Talks HBCU Legacy and Netflix Sequel on The Morning Hustle

The stars of Netflix’s A Different World sequel pulled up to The Morning Hustle to celebrate a show that shaped how many of us first learned about HBCU culture. Original cast member Cree Summer joined newcomers Alijah Kai and Maleah Joi Moon to break down what this return means. The hosts, proud HBCU grads themselves, made it clear: this comeback felt right on time.

The new cast wasted no time showing love. Alijah and Maleah, part of a tight crew they call “The Big Six,” described a set that felt like family from day one. Alijah Kai said it was the “Blackest set” she’d ever worked on—Black cast, Black crew, Black catering—a real family reunion vibe. Their chemistry started at the audition, with both women instantly clicking during their read.

Maleah Joi Moon, who plays the daughter of Dwayne and Whitley, brings serious hardware to the role. She’s already a Tony winner for her Broadway run and a Grammy recipient. When asked about chasing EGOT status, she didn’t blink, setting her sights on completing the collection well before 40.

Cree Summer, the beloved Freddie, offered wisdom on honoring the past. She explained that Freddie evolved into a freedom fighter over time, mirroring her own activist upbringing. Most importantly, she set the record straight: this isn’t a reboot. It’s a sequel that shows where the original characters landed while introducing a fresh freshman class.

The cast gave Debbie Allen her flowers, crediting her vision for making the original a global hit and mentoring this new generation. A Different World premieres September 24th on Netflix.