Jada Pinkett Smith is returning to Hillman College.
The acclaimed actress has confirmed that she will be part of the cast of A Different World on Netflix. She’ll reprise her role as Lena James.
Netflix posted a photo of Pinkett Smith in front of her trailer with the show’s logo and her character’s name.
“Lena James is headed back to Hillman!” the caption read.
On the classic sitcom, Lena James was a fiercely independent engineering-turned-journalism student from Baltimore. Joining the cast in 1991 for the show’s final two seasons, Lena was the ultimate “around-the-way girl,” a major contrast to the affluent backgrounds of characters like Whitley Gilbert.
Back in December, Felicia Pride, showrunner and executive producer, along with co-executive producer Debbie Allen, confirmed the show’s return.
A Different World is back!!! YAY!! We are over the moon to bring this much-anticipated sequel with our returning legacy stars,” Pride and Allen said. “These beloved characters are returning in a major way that respects their history while engaging exciting storylines that are relevant to issues of today.
“We can’t wait for lovers of the show to experience this new chapter as a real continuation of the legacy show, and we’re excited to welcome new audiences to Hillman.”
Pinkett Smith is not the only former cast member to return to the show’s sequel. Other returnees include Jasmine Guy as Whitley Gilbert, Kadeem Hardison as Dwayne Wayne, Cree Summer as Freddie Brooks, and Darryl M. Bell as Ron Johnson, who will appear on a recurring basis throughout the 10 half-hour episodes.
Allen served as producer for 122 episodes and directed 83 of the original series.
“Throughout the season, fans will have a chance to reunite with these O.G. characters. And see how their lives have evolved into
A Different World. And as the story unfolds, there will be more cast surprises in store for longtime fans.”