The beloved 2000s sitcom Malcolm in the Middle is set to make its highly anticipated return nearly 20 years after its conclusion.
Disney+ has greenlit a four-episode revival of the single-camera series, bringing back much of the original cast while introducing new characters to continue the story of the dysfunctional Wilkerson family.
With the latest news of a major casting change, here is everything we know so far about the Malcolm in the Middle revival.
New and Returning Cast
The revival will bring back both familiar and new faces, though one major casting change stands out.
Unfortunately, fans of the classic sitcom will no longer see Erik Per Sullivan as Dewey. Instead, Caleb Ellsworth-Clark will take over the role.
It has been known that Sullivan has largely given up acting after the show ended in 2006.
Newcomers Anthony Timpano, Vaughan Murrae, Keeley Karsten, and Kiana Madeira will also join the cast, portraying Jamie, Malcolm’s youngest brother; Kelly, the sixth Wilkerson sibling introduced in the series finale; Leah, Malcolm’s daughter; and Tristan, Malcolm’s girlfriend, respectively.
Kelly is described as a self-sufficient member of the family, who always gets good grades and is wiser than most of the Wilkersons.
Leah, on the other hand, is said to have the same sarcastic humor, impulsiveness, and “frighteningly high intelligence” as his father, though she is “far more sensitive and emotional.”
Of course, main star Frankie Muniz will return as Malcolm, the gifted middle child who now has a daughter of his own, alongside Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek reprising their roles as his eccentric parents, Hal and Lois.
Additionally, Christopher Masterson and Justin Berfield are confirmed to return as Francis and Reese, respectively.
What is Malcolm in the Middle Revival About?
Malcolm in the Middle revival will center on the celebration of Hal and Lois’ 40th wedding anniversary.
With this very special occasion, Malcolm will be left with no choice but to join his parents with his daughter, returning to the chaotic fold.
“Malcolm and his daughter are drawn into the family’s chaos when Hal and Lois demand his presence for their 40th wedding anniversary party,” its official logline reads.
The new show may explore what happened to Hal and Lois’ marriage 19 years after the original series’ finale and delve into each family member’s storyline over the years.
Jamie will now be an adult, while Kelly will also play a significant role.
Production Details
Originally pitched as a two-hour movie, the revival has been restructured into four 30-minute episodes for Disney+. Production is reportedly underway.
The episodes will follow one cohesive storyline instead of a standalone story, with the show’s original creator, Linwood Boomer, returning as the writer.
“You're gonna see everybody and figure out where they've been and what they're doing,” Muniz said. “And we leave it on a great note, you know, and then we'll see what happens after that.”
Known for its dark humor, fourth-wall-breaking moments, and unconventional gags, it left an indelible mark on television comedy.
The show originally aired from 2000 to 2006. Now that it is about to return, fans expect the revival will address lingering questions from the series finale and provide closure for beloved characters.
So far, Disney+ has yet to announce when Malcolm in the Middle revival will be released.