Bryan Cranston discusses Dewey actor’s absence from the Malcolm in the Middle sequel, shedding light on the unexpected decision by Erik Per Sullivan. The highly anticipated revival, set to bring the Wilkerson family back together, will be missing the beloved character Dewey, as Sullivan opted not to return for the project.
During a conversation on the Fly on the Wall podcast, Cranston revealed he reached out personally to Sullivan, expecting a positive response. According to Cranston, Sullivan remains the only core cast member choosing not to participate in the new miniseries special. Fans, who have followed the sitcom for a quarter-century, may be disappointed by his absence, but the reasons are significant and personal.
Cast Members Reflect on the Revival and Dewey’s Choice
Frankie Muniz, Jane Kaczmarek, and Bryan Cranston will reprise their iconic roles during Hal and Lois’ 40th anniversary celebration in the upcoming four-episode event on Disney Plus. While every main Wilkerson sibling had signed on, Erik Per Sullivan explained to Cranston his reasons for declining the return as Dewey. Cranston recalled the exchange as one filled with warmth, yet finality:
“I talked to Eric and I said, ‘Hey, we got the show! It’s going to come back.’ He goes, ‘Oh, that’s fantastic!’ And I go, ‘Yeah, so we’re looking forward to having you back.’ He goes, ‘Oh, no, no, I don’t want to do it. But it’s fantastic,’”
—Bryan Cranston, Actor
Sullivan’s decision stands out, especially as he is pursuing academic excellence. Cranston shared further details, describing Sullivan’s academic commitment:
“He’s actually going to Harvard. He’s really, really smart, and he’s getting his master’s at Harvard right now. He said, ‘Oh God, no, I haven’t acted since I was nine or something. So I’m not into it.’”
—Bryan Cranston, Actor
Returning Stars Celebrate the Experience
As filming wrapped in May, the cast’s emotions ran high. Frankie Muniz expressed deep gratitude for the chance to revisit his role. On social media, Muniz shared his appreciation for the lasting impact of the show and the joy he felt reconnecting with the Wilkerson family:
“I’m so happy to have gotten the chance to relive being on this show with a greater appreciation of what we were making knowing how many people around the world truly love Malcolm and his family,”
—Frankie Muniz, Actor
“Another big thing I am taking away from this experience is how much I truly love being an actor. I never officially felt like that label fit me, but now I wear that label proudly and hope to do so much more of it in the future.”
—Frankie Muniz, Actor
What Awaits in the Malcolm in the Middle Sequel
The revival marks the 25th anniversary of Malcolm in the Middle, with filming commencing just days after the milestone. The special promises a unique dynamic as the Wilkersons gather for a significant family occasion. Fans will witness Malcolm re-entering his family’s orbit once again, joined by familiar faces except for Dewey. Sullivan’s focus on his academic journey at Harvard, rather than acting, highlights the personal evolution of the original cast.
Cranston’s determination to bring the show back reflects the enduring passion shared by the creative team and fans. The four-part Disney Plus miniseries aims to capture the same blend of comedy and heart that defined the series. As the revival unfolds, the absence of Dewey serves as a poignant reminder of how much has changed, even as the Wilkersons reunite on screen.
