'Malcolm in the middle' returns: Dewey recast sparks fan debate

After nearly two decades off the air, the beloved sitcom ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ is set to make a comeback with a four-episode revival. While much of the original cast is reuniting, a notable change has stirred discussions among fans: the recasting of Dewey, the youngest brother.
Fans can look forward to seeing familiar faces, as Frankie Muniz reprises his role as Malcolm, alongside Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek returning as parents Hal and Lois. Christopher Masterson and Justin Berfield are also back as older brothers Francis and Reese respectively. However, Erik Per Sullivan who portrayed Dewey in the original series has chosen not to return, leading to the casting of Caleb Ellsworth-Clark known for his work in ‘Fargo’ and ‘The Expanse,’ as the new Dewey.
Erik Per Sullivan’s absence from the revival isn’t entirely unexpected. After the original series concluded in 2006, Sullivan stepped away from the acting world. Jane Kaczmarek, in a previous interview, mentioned that Sullivan is doing well and has pursued academic interests, studying Victorian literature at a prestigious university. She noted, “He wasn’t interested in acting, at all.”
The decision to recast Dewey has elicited mixed reactions from the show’s fanbase. Many express disappointment, feeling that the original actor’s portrayal was integral to the character’s charm. Conversely, some are open to giving Ellsworth-Clark a chance, acknowledging his talent and potential to bring a fresh perspective to the role.
In addition to Ellsworth-Clark, the revival introduces new characters, including Anthony Timpano as Jamie and Vaughan Murrae as Kelly, expanding the Wilkerson family dynamics. The storyline centers around Malcolm and his daughter being drawn back into family chaos during Hal and Lois’s 40th wedding anniversary celebration.
As production kicks off in Vancouver, anticipation grows for the series’ return. All the fans are eager to see how the show balances nostalgia with new narratives and characters. While the recasting of Dewey marks a significant change, the revival promises to capture the essence of the original series that endeared it to audiences worldwide.
The ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ revival is slated to premiere on Disney+ later this year, offering both longtime fans and new viewers an opportunity to reconnect with the quirky, endearing Wilkerson family.