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This Is the Actor Replacing Dewey in the Malcolm in the Middle Reboot

No, Erik Per Sullivan (the original 'Dewey') won’t be back, but now we know why

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The return of Malcolm in the Middle has fans buzzing with excitement. Ever since news broke about a new story, there’s been a lot of curiosity: What’s it going to be about? Who’s coming back? Is it a brand-new series or a movie? While details were scarce at first, the idea of seeing the original cast together again—especially the Wilkerson family—was more than enough to get people hyped.

One of the biggest questions was whether Erik Per Sullivan, who played Dewey, one of the show’s most beloved characters, would return. Rumors had been circulating that he wouldn’t be part of the project, and now it’s been confirmed: Erik won’t be coming back—and we finally know why.

It was Bryan Cranston, who played Hal, who shared the real reason. During an episode of the Fly on the Wall podcast, hosted by Dana Carvey and David Spade, Cranston gave fans a few new details about the upcoming film—and explained why Erik won’t be joining the rest of the cast this time around.

Malcolm in the Middle Dewey
The cast of Malcolm In The Middle give a thumbs up sign at the 53rd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shubert Theater November 4, 2001 in Los Angeles, CA. (L-R) Actors Christopher Masterson, Frankie Muniz, Erik Per Sullivan (front center), Bryan Cranston and Justin Berfield. (Vince Bucci/Getty Images)

Erik Per Sullivan’s Reasons

When it was announced that a Malcolm in the Middle movie was in the works, fans were thrilled—especially with the chance to see the original cast back together. But one question quickly popped up: would Erik Per Sullivan return as Dewey, one of the show’s most beloved characters?

Rumors started flying online. Some said he had cut ties with the cast, others guessed health issues or personal drama. But the real reason is actually much simpler. According to Cranston, Erik is currently focused on his college studies—at Harvard, no less.

Cranston explained in a recent interview on the Fly on the Wall podcast that he had a phone call with Erik once the project was greenlit. While Erik was excited for the movie and thought it was a great idea, he said his priorities have shifted. Right now, he’s all-in on his academic journey and has no plans to return to acting—at least for now.

Who Will Play Dewey?

Since Erik won’t be back, the role of Dewey will go to young actor Caleb Ellsworth-Clark. He’s appeared in films and shows like Silencer Hunter, Nightmare Alley, Wynonna Earp, Disappearance at Niagara, and Spiral: From the Book of Saw.

While some fans are disappointed, others are just glad the character of Dewey is still part of the story. As for Erik, he hasn’t made any public statements about his decision—but it’s clear he’s doing what feels right for him.