Fans respond to preview of Malcolm in the Middle reboot, which includes a reenactment of the original series' iconic scene

The iconic sitcom Malcolm in the Middle has unveiled a teaser for its upcoming reboot, Lifes Still Unfair, delighting longtime fans with a nostalgic reference to the original series. The revival will reunite much of the original cast, including Frankie Muniz reprising his role as Malcolm, Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek returning as his parents, and Christopher Masterson and Justin Berfield back as brothers Francis and Reese. The role of Dewey, originally played by Erik Per Sullivan, has been recast with Fargo actor Caleb Ellsworth-Clark.

Hulu released a brief preview of the new four-part series on Friday. In the clip, a woman shaves the back of an unseen man, with hair falling to the floor as a hamster ball rolls by, revealing the shows title and its scheduled 2026 release. The scene is a clear nod to the pilot of the original show, where Hal is shaved in the kitchen by Lois while Malcolm and his brothers fight over toaster waffles. Malcolm breaks the fourth wall, commenting, He has sensitive skin. The hair gets itchy under his clothes.

The tribute has sparked excitement online. Fans on X praised the callback, with comments noting the homage to the first episodes and the continued presence of the hamster ball gag. While some expressed disappointment that the reboot is limited to four episodes, many celebrated the nostalgic touch and expressed enthusiasm for the series return.

Deweys connection to the hamster was a recurring motif in the original series, starting from when he brings his class hamster Bernard home to protect it from a bully, leading to cameo appearances in later episodes.

Muniz, who was 14 when he first took on the role of Malcolm in 2000, expressed excitement about revisiting the character. The original series earned both Cranston and Kaczmarek Emmy nominations in 2006 and garnered 33 nominations with seven wins over its seven-season run.

The reboot was first announced in December 2024. According to the official logline, it will follow Malcolm and his daughter as they navigate family chaos when Hal and Lois require his presence for their 40th wedding anniversary celebration. Muniz reflected on returning to Hollywood, saying that stepping away allowed him to return with renewed energy and commitment, and he hopes audiences will welcome him back into the world of Malcolm.

Author: Connor Blake