Star Bryan Cranston opens up about the Malcolm in the Middle reboot as filming commences

In a recent interview with Variety, Bryan Cranston has shared insights about the highly anticipated reboot of Malcolm in the Middle, which is set to begin filming soon. The reboot will feature Cranston reprising his role as Hal Wilkerson, the clumsy but lovable father of the dysfunctional family whose captured the hearts of the show's viewers for seven years from 2000 to 2006.

Cranston appeared to be thrilled to have the chance to return to the character, implying that he had possibly been pushing for a reunion for years. He added,

"I was the one poking the bear, going, 'Let's do it, let's do it, let's do it.'"

That long-held enthusiasm has finally borne fruit in the form of a reboot that seems to promise a balanced blend of humor and heartfelt moments. The revival will consist of four episodes long that will feature Malcolm and his daughter as they deal with family mayhem in the wake of Hal and Lois's 40th anniversary. The Breaking Bad star said that while the boys are now grown men with children of their own, not everything in the family has changed. He added,

"It’s a different dynamic in that sense — and yet, do things really change with Hal and Lois? I don’t know that they do"

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Details of the Malcolm in the Middle Reboot

Announced in December 2024, the Malcolm in the Middle reboot was originally envisioned by Disney as a film. However, it was decided later that a four-episode series would be produced instead. The series will have several original cast members, with Frankie Muniz reprising his role as Malcolm and Jane Kaczmarek returning as Lois.

Other returning actors include Christopher Masterson and Justin Berfield, who played Francis and Reese, Malcolm's brothers, respectively. However, it is reported that Erik Per Sullivan, the original Dewey, will not be joining the cast back; instead, Caleb Ellsworth-Clark will take his place. Cranston highlighted that the revival will try to hold on to the original series' magic. He said,

“It’s funny, it’s heartfelt,” signaling that viewers can anticipate a continuation of the show's trademark approach.

The Breaking Bad star mentioned that while the boys are now grown men with children of their own, not everything in the family has changed. He added,

"It’s a different dynamic in that sense — and yet, do things really change with Hal and Lois? I don’t know that they do."

It is reported that the four episodes of the reboot will feature Malcolm and his daughter returning home to commemorate his parents, Hal and Lois' 40th anniversary. The show will follow their lives as they navigate through chaos in the family mayhem, showcasing how the dynamics of the family have evolved over the years while still retaining their familiar quirks.

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Filming and Production Insights

Production of the reboot is scheduled to begin in April 2025. Cranston and Muniz have been working on getting into the characters by rewatching the show's classic episodes. Muniz also revealed on social media that he cannot wait to see his old friends again:

"Can’t wait to get back together with my old family".

The creative team from the original show will also return for this reboot. Linwood Boomer is once again at the helm as lead producer, guaranteeing that the new show will stay true to the essence of the original series. Disney Branded Television President Ayo Davis has expressed excitement over reuniting the cast as well:

“Its hilarious and heartfelt portrayal of a lovably chaotic family resonated with audiences of all ages, and we’re so excited to welcome the original cast back to bring that magic to life again."

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Fan Expectations

The Malcolm in the Middle reboot has been in the works for a long time, and the expectations that the fans have been having seem to be high. Cranston's words demonstrate dedication to respecting what had originally made Malcolm in the Middle a favorite while also aiming to find a fanbase among contemporary viewers.

As mentioned earlier, the 69-year-old Emmy-winning actor acknowledged that, even though a substantial amount of time has passed, the central premises of family maladjustment and comedy remain at the heart of the reboot. The program is not only intended to entertain but also to connect with those who grew up watching it. Cranston highlights this bond with the audience by saying that,

"You are reintroduced to this family — We left the airwaves 20 years ago"

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The Malcolm in the Middle reboot promises to cake a comeback for the classic comedy series. With original cast members and a familiar crew returning, fans can hope for a fresh yet nostalgic trip to the past when it debuts on Disney+ this year.