“I feel like the chemistry comes from the fact that I’m inspired by him in many ways,” Moon said about Young.
“A Different World” stars Maleah Joi Moon and Cornell Young IV sat down with host Jennifer Hudson on Monday’s episode of “The Jennifer Hudson Show” to discuss their on-screen chemistry and their role in a new generation at Hillman.
The pair appeared alongside Kadeem Hardison, an original cast member returning for the sequel 39 years later. Hardison reflected on the reunion, while Moon and Young shared their experiences working on the series.
“I’m grateful to have folks that pass the torch to us so gracefully and with so much love and familiarity. Um, this entire legacy is such a – Cre calls it a cultural juggernaut, and that is, like, the best way to describe it. And I’m so glad that I get to be a part of something that promotes hope to a new generation and something that has inspired people for decades,” Moon said.
Young shared similar sentiments, appreciating the opportunity to work on “A Different World” with “iconic people.”
“You know, they are even more beautiful people than they are actors. And I think that’s big in this industry to say because just how they opened their arms to us when we came in; it was like, ‘No, take up space. Y’all are here for a reason. We got y’all. Whatever y’all need.’ So, it’s like, to walk into this project, it was a blessing. I’m grateful every day,” he said.
In their respective roles as Deborah Wayne and Shaquille Johnson, Moon and Young portrayed an on-again, off-again couple navigating college life at the fictional HBCU Hillman College. Their dynamic even sparked dating rumors on social media, but their chemistry has kept viewers talking.
When asked what makes them work so well together, the actors pointed to the bond and friendship they have developed.
“I think I said this recently, but just like a player on a team, the best actor is only as good as their scene partner. And Cornell is not only such a wonderful human, but he is an amazing actor, and I feel like the chemistry comes from the fact that I’m inspired by him in many ways,” Moon said about her co-star.
Young also praised Moon’s talent, saying he feels fortunate to share the screen with someone as accomplished as Moon.
“To be able to work across from a Tony Award winner, a Grammy-Award singer, you know, it’s honestly a blessing. I’m grateful to work across from her, and again, as she said, she’s an amazing soul. So, to be able to have the bond and friendship that we have, and to be able to connect and for people to feel that on camera, is a blessing. So, I’m just honored,” he said.
“A Different World” premiered on Sept. 24, and has already reached number one on Netflix. Earlier this month, TheGrio reported that the streaming service has renewed the sequel seriesfor a second season.
