A Different World: Remembering Each Cast Member Who Has Passed Away

A Different World, the beloved NBC sitcom that aired from 1987 to 1993, has left an indelible mark on television history. A spin-off of The Cosby Show, the series showcased a rich blend of talent, exploring the lives of students at the fictional Hillman College. Despite its cancellation, the impact of the show continues to resonate, as evidenced by the untimely passing of several cast members. Each actor contributed to the series’ legacy with remarkable performances that remain appreciated by fans.

Honoring the Cast Members Who Have Passed Away

Since the end of the series, numerous actors associated with A Different World have unfortunately passed on. These talented individuals ranged from regular cast members to guest stars. Each left behind a legacy marked by distinctive performances that elevated the sitcom’s status during its run. Here, we pay tribute to these remarkable talents and reflect on their significant contributions to the series.

Lou Myers

Passed Away February 2013, Aged 77

Actor: Lou Myers, known for his role as Vernon Gaines, joined the series in its second season. Before his stint on A Different World, he enjoyed a successful Broadway career, featuring in hits such as The First Breeze of Summer and enlightening audiences in works by renowned playwright August Wilson. Myers passed away due to pneumonia complications in 2013, at the age of 77.

Role: Myers’ portrayal of Vernon Gaines, the grouchy yet complex owner of The Pit, was central to the series. Debuting in the episode “Two Gentlemen of Hillman,”he appeared in 88 episodes throughout the show’s run.

Diahann Carroll

Passed Away October 2019, Aged 84

Actor: Diahann Carroll, recognized for her role as Marion in the series, was a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, earning accolades including a Golden Globe and a Tony Award. She initially made her mark in classic films like Claudine and Paris Blues. Carroll fought a brave battle against breast cancer, which she was diagnosed with in 1997, until her passing in 2019.

Role: Appearing in seven episodes, Carroll brought humor and depth to the role of Marion, Whitley Gilbert-Wayne’s overbearing mother, first appearing in season two.

Rosalind Cash

Passed Away October 1995, Aged 56

Actor: Rosalind Cash was the first among the cast to pass away, succumbing to cancer in 1995 at the age of 56. At the time, she was actively portraying Mary in General Hospital and is remembered for her role as Dean Hughes in A Different World. Cash gained acclaim in her roles within the sci-fi genre, most notably in The Omega Man.

Role: Cash’s role as Dean Hughes required her to exude authority, offering a memorable presence during her four episodes on the show.

Ron O’Neal

Passed Away January 2004, Aged 66

Actor: Known for his role as Youngblood Priest in the iconic film Super Fly, Ron O’Neal transitioned from Broadway to film and television. He also directed the sequel Super Fly T.N.T. O’Neal’s journey ended in 2004 after a four-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Role: O’Neal portrayed Mercer, Whitley’s father, in four episodes, possessing a character depth that enhanced the show’s emotional narrative.

Robert Guillaume

Passed Away October 2007, Aged 89

Actor: An esteemed actor, Robert Guillaume was honored with numerous accolades, including a Grammy and two Emmys. Best recognized for his roles as Benson and Rafiki, he contributed to A Different World by portraying both Dean Winston and Professor Murphy. Guillaume made history as the first African American Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera.

Role: Guillaume’s contributions to A Different World were limited to three episodes, but his expertise brought an unforgettable presence to Dean Winston and Professor Murphy.

Ted Ross

Passed Away September 2002, Aged 68

Actor: Best remembered for portraying the Lion in both the Broadway production and the film adaptation of The Wiz, Ted Ross was a versatile performer with a rich career. His final roles before passing in 2002 were also significant, featuring prominently in films and television. He suffered a stroke in 1998, from which complications ultimately led to his death.

Role: Ted Ross played Dean Harris, a character prominently introduced in the season 3 finale of The Cosby Show and carried over to A Different World. His character aided in bridging the two series.

Kristoff St. John

Passed Away February 2019, Aged 52

Actor: Known for his long-running role as Neil Winters on The Young and the Restless, Kristoff St. John also made memorable guest appearances before his untimely passing in 2019 at age 52. His death was ruled accidental but revealed an underlying heart condition. He also starred in significant roles in Generations and Roots: The Next Generations.

Role: St. John had a brief appearance as E.Z. Brooks, a struggling student assisting Denise during finals, showcasing his flexibility as an actor.

James Avery

Passed Away December 2013, Aged 68

Actor: Most acclaimed for his portrayal of Uncle Phil on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, James Avery made a brief appearance on A Different World before his iconic role. He contributed his voice talent to beloved projects, including as Shredder in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Avery’s journey ended due to complications from open-heart surgery in 2013.

Role: Avery’s fleeting role as a pin pusher in the episode “To Have and Have Not” remains memorable due to his subsequent success in the industry.

Thomas Michael Ford

Passed Away October 2016, Aged 52

Actor: Thomas Mikal Ford was well-known for his role as Tommy in Martin and as Mel in The Parkers. His unforgettable portrayal as Lt. Malcolm Barker in New York Undercover resonates with fans. Ford passed away at the age of 52 due to a ruptured abdominal aneurysm.

Role: Ford made a guest appearance in the season 3 episode “The Thing About Women” as Lama Collins, Jaleesa Vinson’s ex-husband, bringing character depth despite a limited role.