Netflix’s new “A Different World” sequel premieres Sept. 24.

It carries a burden that few television comedies face.

The original series ran for six seasons after its 1987 debut.

It helped some viewers choose colleges and careers.

Kadeem Hardison played Dwayne Wayne.

He said he still hears about that impact.

He said people tell him they went to college or became engineers because of the show.

The 10-episode sequel follows Deborah Wayne, Dwayne and Whitley’s youngest daughter.

She starts freshman year at Hillman College.

Cornell Young IV is one of six young stars.

He said filming at historically Black colleges in Atlanta made him reconsider his own college path.

He said the HBCU environment felt “protected” and “seen.”

The showrunner, Felicia Pride, grew up watching the original.

She wants the new Hillman to speak to today’s students.

The sequel addresses social media, isolation, immigration, campus safety and sexual health.

Pride said young people feel connected and disconnected at once.

Maleah Joi Moon plays Deborah.

She said she resisted blending Dwayne and Whitley’s personalities.

Hardison said the new cast should be given time.

He noted the original improved after a creative shift in its second season.