### Title: "Malcolm in the Middle Revival: A New Dewey Takes the Spotlight as Original Actor Steps Back"

Fri Oct 10 2025 15:44:51 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

### Description: "A notable casting change occurs in the upcoming 'Malcolm in the Middle' revival, reflecting actor Erik Per Sullivan's departure from the industry."

### Summary: "The beloved sitcom 'Malcolm in the Middle' is making a comeback on Disney+, welcoming a new actor for the character Dewey as Erik Per Sullivan, who played the role for seven seasons, steps away from acting to focus on literary studies."

The popular American sitcom "Malcolm in the Middle," originally aired from 2000 to 2006, is set to return with a four-episode special on Disney+. However, fans will notice one significant absence: Erik Per Sullivan, who portrayed Malcolm's younger brother Dewey, will not be reprising his role as he has stepped away from acting.

Taking over the character will be Fargo actor Caleb Ellsworth-Clark, as reported by Variety. Frankie Muniz will return as the titular character Malcolm, and his on-screen parents, Lois and Hal, will be portrayed once again by Jane Kaczmarek and Bryan Cranston, known for his iconic role in "Breaking Bad."

In a discussion about Sullivan's absence, Kaczmarek noted that he is doing well and has chosen a different career path, having undertaken studies in Victorian literature at a prestigious university. Sullivan first joined "Malcolm in the Middle" at the age of seven and continued until he was 14. After his tenure on the show, he kept a low profile, with his last credited acting performance in the 2010 film "Twelve." While he appeared in a few children's shows and voiced a character in "Arthur and the Invisibles," he has largely remained out of the public eye.

Meanwhile, the Emmy Award-winning sitcom is regarded as a modern classic and is celebrated for its unique take on the life of a dysfunctional working-class family centered around child prodigy Malcolm. Dewey, a musically-gifted sibling, often bore the brunt of his brothers' antics, leading to quirky and comedic situations throughout the series.

Production for the revival is set to take place soon in Vancouver, with a storyline that sees Malcolm now having a teenage daughter, played by Keeley Karsten. The first episode reportedly revolves around Malcolm being drawn into family chaos during a celebration of Hal and Lois's 40th wedding anniversary. Returning cast members also include Christopher Masterson as Francis and Justin Berfield as Reese. New additions to the series include Kiana Madeira as Malcolm's girlfriend, with Anthony Timpano and Vaughan Murrae joining the cast as Jamie and Kelly, respectively.

The excitement surrounding the revival reflects the enduring popularity of "Malcolm in the Middle," with fans eager to see how the characters and storylines have evolved after years away from the screen.