Erik Per Sullivan, widely recognized for his role as Dewey in the original series Malcolm in the Middle, has opted not to return for the upcoming revival despite being offered a substantial financial incentive. The actor, who has remained largely out of the public eye since the show concluded, will not reprise his character when the miniseries premieres on April 10.
Jane Kaczmarek, who portrayed Lois, revealed that Sullivan turned down a significant payday to join the revival. She highlighted his dedication to academics, noting that he is currently engrossed in studying Dickens and pursuing higher education. Despite the tempting offer, Sullivan politely declined, prioritizing his scholarly pursuits over acting.
Meanwhile, Bryan Cranston, who played Hal, confirmed Sullivan’s disinterest in returning to the screen. On the Fly on the Wall podcast, Cranston shared his conversation with Sullivan, who expressed enthusiasm about the show’s return but firmly declined to participate. Sullivan mentioned that he has not acted since childhood and is no longer inclined toward the profession.
In a significant development, the revival titled Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair will proceed without Sullivan. Caleb Ellsworth-Clark has been cast to portray Dewey in the four-episode miniseries, which centers on Malcolm’s return home for Hal and Lois’s 40th wedding anniversary. Most of the original cast, including Frankie Muniz, Christopher Masterson, and Justin Berfield, will reprise their roles, alongside new characters introduced in the storyline.
Now in his 30s, Sullivan has maintained a low profile since the original series ended in 2006 after seven seasons. His choice to forgo the revival makes him the sole main cast member not returning for the new project.
