Erik Per Sullivan Then and Now: The Former ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ Star at 34
Remember Dewey from Malcolm in the Middle? Erik Per Sullivan, the actor who played the lovable youngest brother, has grown up and taken a very different path since his days on TV. From January 2000 to May 2006, Sullivan brought Dewey to life on Fox, appearing in all 151 episodes. His portrayal of the smart, quirky, and mischievous middle-schooler won the hearts of millions and made him a familiar face in households across America.
During his time on the show, Sullivan didn’t just act. In 2005, he teamed up with his co-star Jane Kaczmarek to write the afterword for Together, a children’s book about farming. The book was inspired by Heifer International, a nonprofit that helps communities develop sustainable agriculture. Sullivan’s involvement showed that even at a young age, he was using his platform to support meaningful causes.
Sullivan also worked in movies while starring on Malcolm in the Middle. He had a role in Christmas with the Kranks in 2004, and he starred in the independent film Mo in 2007. Fans also remember his voice work as Sheldon the Seahorse in the animated hit Finding Nemo and the video game based on the film.
His last acting role was in the 2010 movie Twelve, after which he stepped away from acting. Since then, he has stayed out of the public eye and has not participated in most cast reunions or the show’s revival, Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair, where Caleb Ellsworth-Clark took over the role of Dewey.
Despite leaving Hollywood, Sullivan has continued to pursue education. In 2025, Jane Kaczmarek mentioned that he was studying Victorian literature, and Bryan Cranston revealed he was pursuing a master’s degree at Harvard University. Even though he no longer acts, sources say Sullivan remains supportive of his former castmates and the legacy of Malcolm in the Middle.
Sullivan’s early career included smaller film roles before Malcolm in the Middle. He appeared uncredited in Armageddon in 1998 and had parts in The Cider House Rules, Wendigo, Joe Dirt, and Unfaithful. On television, he had brief appearances in shows like Wonderland, The King of Queens, and Come On Over.
While these roles were stepping stones, it was Malcolm in the Middle that truly defined his career. The show gave him stability, a fan base, and opportunities in writing and voice acting. It also showed how a young actor could use fame responsibly, contributing to projects like children’s books and charitable causes.
Looking back, it’s clear that playing Dewey shaped Sullivan’s life more than most roles could. It introduced him to the entertainment world, gave him life-long experiences, and helped him explore his own interests beyond acting. Today, at 34, he may be out of the spotlight, but the impact of his work on television remains significant.
Erik Per Sullivan made the perfect Dewey. He brought humor, heart, and intelligence to the role. It’s interesting to see how child actors like him can take different paths while still being remembered for their iconic roles. What do you think about Sullivan’s journey from TV star to student and private life? Share your thoughts in the comments.