Where Netflix's A Different World Revival Filmed Its College Scenes
Netflix's A Different World revival is set at the fictional Hillman College, but filming took place in Atlanta. Exterior scenes were shot at Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, and Morehouse College. The original series also drew on Spelman's campus imagery, and the sequel's first season is now streaming.
The revival follows Deborah Wayne, played by Maleah Joi Moon, through her first year at Hillman, the school her parents attended. Kadeem Hardison and Jasmine Guy return as those parents. Filming occurred in Atlanta and wrapped in May 2026; exteriors used Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, and Morehouse College.
Spelman’s Bessie Strong Hall was a backdrop for the original, which otherwise used a Studio City soundstage. The sequel also employs Spelman graduate Ashley Laverne Jackson as a staff writer. Debbie Allen, who worked on the original and played Dr. Langhorne, executive produces and directs the premiere; Felicia Pride is showrunner, and the 10-episode season is streaming.
The revival may draw fresh attention to historically Black colleges and universities, especially Spelman, Clark Atlanta, and Morehouse, potentially benefiting local production and tourism. Viewers who grew up with the original could revisit Hillman through a new generation, while current students and alumni may see their campuses represented on a streaming platform. Its success could also influence how entertainment companies invest in Black-led college stories and Atlanta-based production.