The return of Malcolm in the Middle to television, nearly two decades after its last airing, has generated a lot of excitement among fans. However, one piece of news has shocked and saddened viewers: Erik Per Sullivan, who portrayed Dewey, the mischievous fourth son of the Wilkerson family, will not be part of the revival.
With the start of production just weeks away, it has been confirmed that Per Sullivan will not reprise his iconic role. According to the entertainment news site Variety, the actor will be replaced by Caleb Ellsworth-Clark, known for his roles in shows like Fargo and The Expanse. This casting change has caused quite a stir, as Dewey was a beloved character among fans of the show.
The reason behind Per Sullivan’s absence has not been officially revealed. However, Variety suggests that it could be due to the actor’s decision to step away from the entertainment industry 15 years ago, after his last movie appearance in Twelve in 2010. Since then, he has chosen to live a life away from the spotlight.
Dewey isn’t the only character undergoing a transformation in the upcoming revival. The role of Jamie, the youngest brother, will now be played by Anthony Timpano, replacing twins James and Lukas Rodríguez, who originally portrayed the character. While the change in Jamie’s portrayal hasn’t stirred as much controversy as Dewey’s absence, it is still a topic of conversation among longtime fans.
The show, which was a massive success during its seven seasons, will introduce new twists in the storyline. One of the most notable changes is the addition of a new Wilkerson sister, who will be played by Vaughan Murrae. The actress will portray Kelly, a young woman who stands out from her brothers due to her intelligence and academic prowess.
In addition, the series will explore the relationship between Malcolm and his daughter Leah, portrayed by Keeley Karsten. The teenager, who has inherited her father’s intellectual abilities, also possesses a remarkable ability to communicate emotionally, promising to add a new layer of depth to the plot.
The revival of Malcolm in the Middle will kick off with an episode centered on the preparations for Lois and Hal’s 40th anniversary. The series will explore how the main characters, particularly Malcolm and his daughter, handle the celebration of this significant family event.
While Erik Per Sullivan’s absence is a blow to the most nostalgic fans, the anticipation of seeing beloved characters in new storylines remains strong. We’ll have to wait and see how the new season manages to maintain the essence of one of the most cherished comedies of the early 2000s.
