ABC Airs 'The Facts of Life' and 'Diff'rent Strokes' Remake

The newest installment of “Live in Front of a Studio Audience” was kicked off by Norman Lear and Jimmy Kimmel, bringing “The Facts of Life” and “Diff’rent Strokes” back to life.

The star-studded cast of both shows seemingly enjoyed the change of pace and in-the-moment aspect of the shows since most actors hadn’t been in front of a live audience before.

Being live meant there was room for error, so a few f-bombs and breaks of character occurred.

In one scene, Jennifer Aniston, playing the character Blair, nearly broke character after a funny line and other cast members cracked a smile.

For this live remake, the cast of “The Facts of Life” included Gabrielle Union as Tootsie, Allison Tolman as Natalie, Kathryn Hahn as Jo, and Ann Dowd as Mrs. Garrett.

For the live special, the cast recreated an episode titled “Kids Can Be Cruel” where a headgear-wearing Jon Stewart played Carl Price.

In the episode, Carl Price is a nerdy schoolmate trying to bid on Blair’s dinner box at a charity event in order to spend some time with his crush Blair.

Will Arnett and Jason Bateman made cameos on the episode as teen boys.

For “Diff’rent Strokes” Kevin Hart played the role of Arnold, John Lithgow played Mr. Drummond, and Damon Wayans played Willis.

The cast recreated an episode from season 1 titled “Willis’ Privacy” in which Willis gets annoyed with Arnold and wants some personal space.

Fully committed to the role, Hart sported the “Super Arnold” outfit, fully equipped with a cape. Lithgow was as equally committed and sat down Hart on his lap for a heart-to-heart chat featured in the episode.

Snoop Dogg made a highly applauded cameo on the episode as one of Willis’ friends.

The newest installment of “Live in Front of a Studio Audience” will be available on-demand and on Hulu Wednesday.

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Actress Lisa Whelchel sings The Facts of Life theme song with an appearance by two former cast members. Watch here. 

Photo Credit: Courtesy of ABC