Eight days and 4.2 million views: Netflix renews 'A Different World', the sequel to the '80s classic

Netflix did not wait long. 'A Different World', the sequel to the 1987 sitcom, was renewed for a second season on Friday (Oct. 2), just eight days after premiering on Sept. 24. In its first week, the show debuted at No. 4 on the streamer's global English-language TV chart with 4.2 million views and reached the Top 10 in 15 countries.

The story follows Deborah Wayne, played by Maleah Joi Moon, during her freshman year at Hillman, a historically Black college. She is the daughter of Dwayne and Whitney, the beloved couple from the original series, with Kadeem Hardison and Jasmine Guy reprising their roles. According to Netflix, sophomore year will see the students facing past decisions, uncertain futures, new loves and friendships.

Creator and showrunner Felicia Pride said she feels validated by the audience and that the team is beyond excited to return to Hillman. Executive producer and director Debbie Allen celebrated by saying the people and Netflix have spoken, and that the show delivered what everybody needed: joy, romance, relevance, authenticity and heart.