What Happened to Erik Per Sullivan, Malcolm in the Middle's Original Dewey?
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| Erik Per Sullivan |
Fans of Malcolm in the Middle have long been curious about the whereabouts of Erik Per Sullivan, who portrayed Dewey, Malcolm's younger brother, in the beloved sitcom. As the show gears up for a much-anticipated revival, many were hopeful to see Sullivan reprise his iconic role. However, it has been confirmed that he will not be returning, with another actor stepping in to play Dewey.
Why is Erik Per Sullivan Not Returning?
Erik Per Sullivan has officially retired from acting. Malcolm in the Middle aired from 2000 to 2006, concluding with its seventh season as viewership ratings began to decline. Despite the show's enduring popularity, Sullivan opted to step away from acting after the series ended.
Following the finale, Sullivan continued to act for a short period. In 2006, he appeared in the children's television series Come on Over and provided the voice of Mino in the animated movie Arthur and the Invisibles. His final known acting role was in the 2010 teen crime drama film Twelve.
Life After Acting
In a 2024 interview with Malcolm France, Jane Kaczmarek, who played Lois, Dewey's mother, shed light on Sullivan's current pursuits. She revealed that he retired from acting due to a waning interest in the profession and has since chosen a completely different career path. Sullivan is now enrolled at a prestigious American university, where he is pursuing a degree in Victorian literature.
Reflecting on Sullivan's decision to step away from the limelight, Kaczmarek expressed admiration for his choice. "I respect it because many people view show business as the ultimate dream, but it isn't for everyone," she stated.
Who Will Play Dewey in the Revival?
As the Malcolm in the Middle revival brings back most of the original cast, Dewey will now be portrayed by Caleb Ellsworth-Clark. At 33 years old, Erik Per Sullivan remains out of the public eye, focusing on his academic journey and personal growth.
Although fans may miss seeing the original Dewey on screen, Sullivan's decision to follow his passions serves as a reminder that personal fulfillment often lies beyond the spotlight.