Justin Berfield Reveals Why Dewey Won’t Return in ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ Sequel
Fans of Malcolm in the Middle are about to see the show return, but not every familiar face will be part of the comeback. A new four-episode project titled Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair is set to arrive on streaming, bringing most of the original cast back together.
The story follows Malcolm, played by Frankie Muniz, as the family gathers for a big milestone event for his parents. While many characters are returning, one major absence stands out. Erik Per Sullivan, who played Dewey, will not be part of the new episodes.
Sullivan stepped away from acting years ago and has not appeared on screen since 2010. His former co-star Justin Berfield recently spoke about him during an appearance on The Joe Vulpis Podcast. He shared that they still stay in touch and that Sullivan is doing well.
Official trailer for ‘MALCOLM IN THE MIDDLE: LIFE’S STILL UNFAIR’
— cinesthetic. (@TheCinesthetic) March 12, 2026
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Berfield said, “I talked to him, I think it was after my daughter was born. We emailed back and forth.” He also added, “He’s happy. He’s a good guy. He’s like, really happy though.”
Even though the team behind the revival wanted the original cast together, Sullivan chose not to return. Berfield explained that he was asked but declined the offer. He said, “I know they asked him to be a part of the show, and he was just like, ‘No, I’m done. I’m done with that part of my life’.” Because of this, the role of Dewey has been recast, with a new actor stepping in.
Erik Per Sullivan, who played Dewey on "Malcolm in the Middle," has retired from acting and won't return for the revival. Instead, he's "getting his Master's at Harvard," says Bryan Cranston.https://t.co/7qo8cwOFk4
— Variety (@Variety) June 13, 2025
Other cast members have also shared updates about Sullivan’s life. Jane Kaczmarek revealed that he has been focusing on his studies. She mentioned that he is working toward a graduate degree in Victorian literature and said, “I admire it too because so many people think being in show business is the greatest thing in the world. It’s not for everyone.”
Bryan Cranston also spoke about their conversation when the revival was announced. He recalled, “I talked to Erik, and I said, ‘Hey, we got the show! It’s going to come back.’ He goes, ‘Oh, that’s fantastic!’ And I go, ‘Yeah, so we’re looking forward to having you back.’ He goes, ‘Oh, no, no, I don’t want to do it. But it’s fantastic’.”
Even though he will not return, it is clear that he supports the project and stays connected with his former castmates. His choice shows that not everyone wants to stay in the spotlight, even after being part of a successful show.
This is actually refreshing to see. Not everyone wants fame forever, and it takes confidence to walk away and choose a different path. It also shows that success can mean different things for different people. What do you think about his decision? Would you have liked to see him return, or do you respect his choice to move on?
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!
