Dawnn Lewis Gets Emotional Reflecting on “A Different World” Return: ‘I Actually Started Crying’ (Exclusive)

**Dawnn Lewis Reflects on Emotional Return to Hillman College in A Different World Sequel**

Dawnn Lewis has made a poignant return to the world of Hillman College, reuniting with her original cast mates from the beloved sitcom A Different World, which aired on NBC from 1987 to 1993. Now, 33 years after the original series concluded, Lewis, who reprises her role as Jaleesa Vinson-Taylor, expressed that stepping back onto the updated set was an emotional experience, one that left her in tears.

In an interview with PEOPLE, the 65-year-old actress revealed that she was taken aback by the memories that flooded back to her as she walked onto the new set of the Pit, the show’s iconic gathering spot on campus. A tribute to Lou Myers, who portrayed Mr. Gaines and passed away in 2013, particularly touched her heart, highlighting the history and connection the cast shared.

The original A Different World ran for six seasons and produced 144 episodes, depicting the lives of students at Hillman, a fictional historically Black college. The series tackled pressing social issues of the day, including race relations, HIV/AIDS awareness, and sexual assault, becoming a cultural touchstone for many fans. The recent revival series premiered on Netflix on September 24 and consists of ten episodes, focusing on the daughter of original characters Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert, played by Maleah Joi Moon.

Lewis recalled how easily she fell back into her character, stating, “To walk back onto set and fall back into our characters, it was as though we never, never left.” The nostalgic atmosphere on set was palpable, with familiar routines of singing and sharing jokes quickly reacquainting the cast.

Moon, now 24, commented on the interaction between the original cast and the new generation of students, saying, “Fans of the original A Different World will feel cared for in the new series.” She added that the audience enjoys seeing the original cast serve as a bridge to the younger performers, allowing for a seamless blend of nostalgia and fresh narratives.

While the revival introduces new themes and issues, Lewis noted some challenges remain familiar. She remarked, “Unfortunately, some of the things we were talking about and raising awareness of in the ’80s and ’90s are still issues today.” Hoping that the new series continues to drive awareness, Lewis expressed her desire for viewers to recognise the power of having a voice in promoting positive change.

Aside from her return to A Different World, Lewis is busy with a role in another Netflix project, Nemesis. She has also lent her voice to characters in animated series such as The Simpsons and Futurama. Balancing multiple roles, Lewis stated that as filming resumes, she will likely juggle responsibilities between A Different World and Nemesis.

Reflecting on her career, Lewis reminisced about her beginnings on A Different World, where she not only acted but also co-wrote and recorded the show’s theme song. “When I got the opportunity to do A Different World and saw how many doors were now open to me, I did my best to walk through as many of them as I possibly could,” she explained, emphasising her determination to continue evolving as an artist.

Lewis also shared her plans to participate in a Star Trek cruise in February 2027, where she aims to perform alongside her voice work for Captain Carol Freeman on Star Trek: Lower Decks. Her past experiences have instilled in her a desire to establish pathways for youngsters. Her non-profit, A New Day Foundation, spearheads initiatives aimed at assisting underserved youth in financial literacy and career preparation, amongst other vital skills.

“It is important for me not just to be the exception but to be the example,” she asserted, highlighting her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

As the new A Different World sequel finds its place in the hearts of viewers, resonating with those who cherished the original, Lewis’ return to Hillman College serves as not only a celebration of nostalgia but a renewal of the show’s important messages, allowing both old and new audiences to engage with its themes. The series is currently streaming on Netflix.