‘Dewey Actor From ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ Chooses Harvard Over Lucrative Revival Deals’
Erik Per Sullivan, the actor known for portraying Dewey in “Malcolm in the Middle,” has declined to join the upcoming revival series. The reboot, aptly titled “Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair,” will premiere on Hulu after nearly two decades since the original series aired.
Dewey Actor Chooses Academia Over Acting
Sullivan has turned down significant financial offers to reprise his role, opting instead to focus on his education at Harvard University. Jane Kaczmarek, who played Lois, confirmed that Sullivan was offered “buckets of money” to return, emphasizing his dedication to academics.
Insights from Costars
In a discussion on the “Fly on the Wall” podcast, Bryan Cranston, known for his role as Hal, shared his conversation with Sullivan. Cranston expressed excitement about the revival, but Sullivan stated he preferred his current path. “He’s actually going to Harvard,” Cranston recalled. “He’s really, really smart, and he’s getting his master’s at Harvard right now.”
The Future of Dewey
With Sullivan opting out, the character of Dewey will be played by Caleb Ellsworth-Clark in the revival. The original “Malcolm in the Middle” aired for seven seasons, producing over 150 episodes and winning various awards.
About the Revival
The revival’s storyline begins with Malcolm, played by Frankie Muniz, celebrating Hal and Lois’s 40th wedding anniversary. Cranston expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the show that shaped his career. “It was seven great years of my life,” he said in an interview. “There’s no better job than going to work and thinking of how to be funny.”
- Show Title: Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair
- Original Air Time: Nearly 20 years since the previous season ended
- Original Series: 7 seasons, over 150 episodes
- Actor Playing Dewey: Caleb Ellsworth-Clark
- Premiering On: Hulu
Sullivan’s commitment to his studies underscores a growing trend among young actors prioritizing education over potentially lucrative acting opportunities. His journey is a reminder that success can take many forms.
