One of our beloved sitcoms from back in the day is on the road to support historic Black college campuses across the nation.
In the 80s and 90s, “A Different World” shined a light on the Black college experience in a way that helped make dreams of higher education a reality for many. Now, the iconic cast of that NBC sitcom –that ran for six seasons– is back, but not for an on-screen reunion. This show is putting in the footwork in a tour to highlight the pride that HBCUs possess.
The 10-city initiative kicked off Thursday (February 29) at Atlanta University Center, which is home to Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College, as reported by PEOPLE.
Many of our favorite cast members will participate in the event including Darryl M. Bell (Ronald ‘Ron’ Johnson), Charnele Brown (Kimberly ‘Kim’ Reese), Jasmine Guy (Whitley Marion Gilbert Wayne), Kadeem Hardison (Dwayne Cleophus Wayne), Dawnn Lewis (Jaleesa Vinson Taylor), Cree Summer (Winifred ‘Freddie’ Brooks), Glynn Turman (Col. Bradford ‘Brad’ Taylor) and comedian Sinbad (Walter Oakes).
Producers Susan Fales and Debbie Allen will also participate.
The tour will also touch down in Washington, DC (hosted by Howard University), and Montgomery, Alabama (hosted by Alabama State University and Tuskegee University). More cities and schools are soon to be announced.
As excited as fans are for this reunion, its main focus is to promote enrollment and scholarship funds at HBCUs.
“Our mission goes beyond nostalgia. We’re on a quest to raise awareness and enrollment for HBCUs nationwide. By leveraging the star power and cultural impact of A Different World, we aim to inspire a new generation to choose HBCUs as their academic homes,” the website states. “We’re not just telling a story; we’re rewriting the narrative.”
“A Different World” is streaming on Max.