The *Malcolm in the Middle* reboot is officially moving forward, and fans are in for a nostalgic treat as nearly the entire original cast returns. However, one notable change has been confirmed: Erik Per Sullivan, who portrayed the lovable youngest brother Dewey, will not be reprising his role. Instead, Caleb Ellsworth-Clark will step into the part for the revival series.

In a recent interview on Dana Carvey and David Spade’s *Fly on the Wall* podcast, Bryan Cranston—who plays the iconic Hal—shared how he approached Sullivan about returning. “I talked to Erik and said, ‘Hey, we got the show! It’s coming back!’” Cranston recalled. “He goes, ‘Oh, that’s fantastic!’ And I go, ‘Yeah, so we’re looking forward to having you back.’ He replies, ‘Oh, no, no, I don’t want to do it. But it’s fantastic.’”

The reason behind Sullivan’s decision is both understandable and impressive. Now 33 years old, Sullivan explained that he’s currently pursuing a master’s degree at Harvard University. “He’s actually going to Harvard,” Cranston proudly noted. “He’s really smart and said, ‘Oh God, no, I haven’t acted since I was nine or something. So I’m not into it.’”

After *Malcolm in the Middle* ended its original run in 2006, Sullivan left acting behind just four years later at age 19 to explore other passions—a path that clearly led him toward an accomplished academic career. Meanwhile, the rest of the main cast is fully onboard for the revival. Alongside Cranston, Frankie Muniz (Malcolm), Jane Kaczmarek (Lois), Justin Berfield (Reese), and Christopher Masterson (Francis) will all return to reprise their roles.

Production on the new episodes wrapped last month, and while an official release date has yet to be announced, fans are eagerly anticipating the four-episode mini-series. With any luck, the *Malcolm in the Middle* revival will soon arrive on Disney+, offering longtime viewers a chance to reconnect with one of television’s most unforgettable families.