Erik Per Sullivan is living his Ivy league dream.
The Malcolm in the Middle star is currently studying to obtain his master’s degree at Harvard University, his TV dad Bryan Cranston recently revealed. While discussing the upcoming revival of the series, the actor—who plays family patriarch Hal—gave an update on his on-screen son.
"He's actually going to Harvard," Bryan told hosts David Spade and Dana Carvey on the Fly on the Wall podcast June 11. "He's really, really smart, and he's getting his master's at Harvard right now.”
As Bryan explained, he shared the news of the revival getting the green light with Erik. However, the former child actor politely declined the offer to come back.
"I talked to Erik and I said, 'Hey, we got the show! It's going to come back,'” Bryan recalled. “He goes, 'Oh, that's fantastic!' And I go, 'Yeah, so we're looking forward to having you back, He goes, 'Oh, no, no, I don't want to do it. But it's fantastic.'"
Outside of school, Erik—who left Hollywood in 2010—confirmed to Bryan that he isn’t into returning to television.
“He said, 'Oh God, no, I haven't acted since I was 9 or something,’” Bryan recalled. “So, I'm not into it.'"
As far as the cast of the revival goes, every member of the Wilkerson family will be played by the original actors: Frankie Muniz is returning as the titular Malcolm, while Justin Berfield and Christopher Masterson are coming back as his older brothers Francis and Reese, respectively and Jane Kaczmarek will return as matriarch Lois. Erik’s role will be recast with actor Caleb Ellsworth-Clark.
But it doesn’t end there as Anthony Timpano will play Malcolm's youngest brother, Jamie, who appeared as a baby and toddler in the series' original run, while Vaughan Murrae is set to play the sixth child, whom Lois was pregnant with during the show’s series finale.
Though there will be new faces among a few favorites, Frankie shared his excitement for the revival that will see him returning to is parents’ house 40th anniversary party.
“I think Bryan and I first started talking at a dinner that we had in 2015,” the 39-year-old told E! News in February. “And the fact that now 10 years later, 25 years after the show started, it's going to happen—I'm really excited. I think people are going to be thrilled to see everybody and the ideas that they've come up with.”
He added, “Because that was a big thing for me, too, is like the possibilities are endless on what Malcolm and his family could be up to. I've read the scripts, so I know. And I think people are going to be pretty excited.”
And while we wait for the revival to premiere, keep reading for more shows hitting TV in 2025...
Alien: Earth (FX) - Aug. 12
When the mysterious deep space research vessel USCSS Maginot crash-lands on Earth, “Wendy” (Sydney Chandler) and a ragtag group of tactical soldiers make a fateful discovery that puts them face-to-face with the planet’s greatest threat in FX’s Alien: Earth.
Truck Dynasty (Discovery Chanel) - Aug. 12
The new reality series follows a larger-than-life family who transform average trucks into the loudest, most coveted, and eye-catching custom creations around.
Florida's Apocalypse Manufacturing owner Joe Ghattas is a self-made boss in the custom truck industry, known for his bold designs and loyal following that includes hardcore enthusiasts, world-famous rappers, sports superstars, and elite supermodels. Alongside his wife and co-owner Ashley, he designs, fabricates, and sells these outrageous custom creations. No design is too wild for them to build – ranging from an Apocalypse Hellfire with a pull-out mobile kitchen for legendary chef Guy Fieri or an Apocalypse Super Truck with superhero branding for NBA champion Shaquille O'Neal. With the support of his in-laws, who run sales and marketing for the business, Joe is on the brink of breaking through the fiercely competitive marketplace to establish an American auto brand in a category all its own.
Butterfly (Prime Video) - Aug. 13
The spy thriller is a character-driven spy thriller that explores complex family dynamics within the treacherous world of global espionage. It's centered on David Jung (Daniel Dae Kim), an enigmatic, highly unpredictable former US intelligence operative living in South Korea, whose life is blown to pieces when the consequences of an impossible decision from his past come back to haunt him, and he finds himself pursued by Rebecca, a deadly, sociopathic young agent assigned to kill him, and Caddis, the sinister spy organization she works for.
Honest Renovations (Roku Channel) - Aug. 14
Raising a family is hard, your home shouldn’t make it harder! Jessica Alba and Lizzy Mathis are back for a new season of helping families renovate their homes to better fit their needs. Their goal is to not only elevate these homes, but make them more functional—identifying key issues for the family, finding problem-solving design solutions, and making them a reality. When the renovation is complete, things get emotional as the families move back into their brand-new homes.
The Rainmaker (USA) - Aug. 15
Based on the best-selling novel by John Grisham, Rudy Baylor, who is fresh out of law school, goes head-to-head with courtroom lion Leo Drummond as well as his law school girlfriend, Sarah. Rudy, along with his boss, Bruiser, and her disheveled paralegal, Deck, uncover two connected conspiracies surrounding the mysterious death of their client’s son.
Magic City: An American Fantasy (Starz) - Aug. 15
Magic City: An American Fantasy is a riveting docuseries that takes viewers on a wild and unexpected ride detailing the legendary club’s storied history as a cultural hub in Atlanta. Having evolved into the definitive king-maker in the hip-hop community, the club caters to high-profile celebrities such as 2 Chainz, Nelly, Shaquille O’Neal, Quavo, Killer Mike and Big Boi, all of whom share their firsthand Magic City experiences in exclusive interviews. Additionally, the docuseries offers a powerful platform for the lives of the many women who work there and are responsible for building the club’s mystique.
Fit For TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser (Netflix) - Aug. 15
Fit for TV: The Reality of The Biggest Loser is a three-part documentary series that takes an inside look at the making of the hit reality TV competition, exploring the good, the bad, and the complicated. Featuring interviews with former contestants, trainers, producers, and health professionals, the documentary examines the show’s approach to transformation, the support systems in place, and the unique challenges of filming reality television. The series explores how the experience shaped the lives of those involved with the show long after the cameras stopped rolling and invites viewers to reflect on the balance between entertainment and well-being, and what it truly means to pursue lasting change.
Betty La Fea: La Historia Continúa (Prime Video) - Aug. 15
Season two picks up where the previous one left off, with Betty facing decisions that shake her present and redefine her family’s story. As she tries to rebuild her relationship with her daughter Mila and deal with the emotional distance growing between her and Armando, new secrets come to light that will challenge the stability of everything she thought was under control.
Limitless: Live Better Know (Disney+/Hulu/National Geographic) - Aug. 15
Chris Hemsworth returns with a bold new mission: discovering how we can all live better—starting today. In the newly titled Limitless: Live Better Now, he dives into three high-stakes challenges that promise real, immediate ways to sharpen our minds and strengthen our bodies.
In this thrilling three-part series, Chris pushes himself further than ever—both physically and mentally—as he confronts some of life’s most universal challenges: pain, fear and cognitive decline.
Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical (Apple TV+) - Aug. 15
Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical is a musical special about the joy and magic of summer camp and the importance of preserving what you love. Charlie Brown loves camp and is determined to make his final year special, but Sally, a first-time camper, is nervous and skeptical of the new and unfamiliar place. While everyone settles into camp, Snoopy and Woodstock discover a treasure map that takes them on a wild adventure nearby.
The Great American Baking Show: Celebrity Summer (Roku Channel) - Aug. 16
Four celebrities step into the sun-filled Baking Show tent, ready to whip up some sweet summer treats. Award-winning actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Black-ish star Yara Shahidi, actor and comedian June Diane Raphael and Broadway sensation Andrew Rannells tackle three challenging bakes. Under the guidance of judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith, these stars will put their skills to the test—but only one will rise to the occasion and claim the coveted Star Baker title for a sweet summer victory!
The Mother Flip (A&E's HomeMadeNation) - Aug. 16
Best friends, moms and savvy flippers Kristy Etheredge and Rebecca Franchione, along with contractor Roy Salinas, transform the worst homes in Texas’ Hill Country into big profits. With all-cash deals and strategic renovations, they take bold risks to turn rundown properties into real estate gold—splitting the massive payday three ways.
The Serial Killer's Apprentice (Investigation Discovery) - Aug. 17
The documentary will revisit one of the most sinister killers in recent history, Dean Corll, and feature an in-depth interview with his accomplice, Elmer Wayne Henley Jr. Marking the first time Henley has spoken about his crimes in over 50 years, The Serial Killer's Apprentice will feature Henley in conversation with renowned criminologist Dr. Katherine Ramsland. Over the course of two hours, Ramsland dives into the mind and memory of Henley – and what motivated him to act as Corll’s accomplice in what was known as the largest mass murder in U.S. history at the time.
Are You My First? (Hulu) - Aug. 18
In this groundbreaking new dating experiment, the largest, hottest group of virgins ever assembled search for intimacy, love – and maybe their first – in a tropical paradise designed just for them. For the first time, they’re free to explore their connections without judgment, allowing these sexy young singles to embark on a heated yet heartfelt journey packed with romantic dates, revealing challenges, and new love interests eager to find “the one.” Who will find that special someone? And who will go home hot, bothered and heartbroken?
America's Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys (Netflix) - Aug. 19
The look back on the Dallas Cowboys’ era of dominance premieres on Netflix in summer 2025.
The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox (Hulu) - Aug. 20
A limited series inspired by the story of how Amanda Knox was wrongfully convicted for the tragic murder of her roommate, Meredith Kercher, and her 16-year odyssey to set herself free.
Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe (NBC) - Aug. 20
NBC invites audiences to embark on a spectacular adventure with Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe, airing Wednesday, Aug. 20 at 9 p.m. and available to stream next day on Peacock. Hosted by Joe Manganiello, the one-hour special celebrates the debut of Universal Orlando Resort’s Universal Epic Universe and explores the imagination, innovation and storytelling behind the groundbreaking new theme park.
Expedition X (Discovery Channel) - Aug. 20
Exploring the stranger side of the unknown, adventurer Josh Gates and his team – paranormal researcher Heather Amaro and scientist Phil Torres – chase down answers to the world’s most spine-tingling legends and mysteries, from haunted prisons to supernatural hotspots and mystical creatures.
Ghost Adventures: House Calls (Discovery Channel) - Aug. 20
Paranormal investigators Zak Bagans, Aaron Goodwin, Billy Tolley and Jay Wasley respond to urgent calls for help in a gripping new season.
Overwhelmed by invasive, terrifying and unrelenting spirit activity that continues to escalate with no end in sight, distraught homeowners are desperate for the team’s help. After assessing each harrowing case, Bagans deploys the team to the epicenter of the haunting to further investigate. Using their findings, together they work to bring clarity, resolution and restore much-needed peace to each family in need.
Family Lockup (A&E) - Aug. 21
The new series follows a groundbreaking re-entry program in which estranged family members of inmates attempt to rebuild their broken relationships from within prison walls to help their incarcerated loved ones regain the support that can help them stay out of jail – for good.
The series tracks family members who spend two nights behind bars, alongside their inmate-relatives, in the Hampden County Jail in Hampden County, MA, part of an initiative instituted by Sheriff Nick Cocchi that redefines correctional rehabilitation and spotlights the critical role family dynamics play, both in incarceration and in the reintegration of individuals for whom jail can be a revolving door.
The Truth About Jussie Smollett? (Netflix) - Aug. 22
From RAW, the producers of Don’t F**k with Cats and Tinder Swindler, comes The Truth About Jussie Smollett?, a shocking true story of an allegedly fake story that some now say might just be a true story. Featuring interviews with police, lawyers, journalists, investigators who claim to have uncovered new evidence about the case, and with Jussie himself, this compelling documentary invites the audience to decide for themselves who is telling The Truth About Jussie Smollett?
007: Road to a Million (Prime Video) - Aug. 22
Inspired by the iconic James Bond franchise, the reality competition 007: Road to a Million returns with a bold and ambitious second season, reinventing the season one format.
In season two, eight pairs of ordinary people embark on a thrilling 007-inspired global adventure. From climbing Bangkok towers to shark dives in the Bahamas, they'll face epic challenges testing skills and relationships. The slowest pairs face elimination in the tense Killer Question. Only one duo will reach London for a shot at £1 million. Get ready to be shaken and stirred!
Invasion (Apple TV+) - Aug. 22
Invasion follows an alien invasion through different perspectives around the world. In season three, those perspectives collide for the first time, as the series’ main characters are brought together to work as a team on a critical mission to infiltrate the alien mothership. The ultimate apex aliens have finally emerged, rapidly spreading their deadly tendrils across our planet. It will take all our heroes working together, using all their experience and expertise, to save our species. New relationships are formed, old relationships are challenged and even shattered, as an international cast of characters must become a team before it’s too late.
Naomi Osaka: The Second Set (Tubi) - Aug. 24
The documentary chronicles renowned athlete Naomi Osaka’s return to professional tennis after the birth of her child. The documentary film will deliver an intimate look into the life of Osaka as she navigates balancing her career with first-time motherhood and is described as a love letter to her daughter, Shai.
Upload (Prime Video) - Aug. 25
In the four-part series finale event, sentient AI rapidly turns evil, threatening to wipe out Lakeview (and the world!). On top of greedy executives, lingering mysteries, plus heartbreak in VR and IRL, our characters are tested like never before. The only way they can get through it all and save humanity from deletion is by teaming up one last time.
With Love, Meghan (Netflix) - Aug. 26
Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, returns with a fun and heartwarming new season, welcoming celebrity chefs, talented artists, and beloved friends for hands-on adventures filled with laughter and discovery. From playful cooking challenges to DIY projects, Meghan and her guests explore bold flavors, experiment with new techniques, and discover simple ways to add beauty to everyday life. It's all about embracing playfulness over perfection and finding joy in creating together.
Love Thy Nader (Freeform) - Aug. 26
The bold coming-of-age reality series follows the unapologetic and determined Nader sisters—Brooks, Sarah Jane, Grace Ann and Mary Holland—who left their humble beginnings in the Louisiana bayou for the glamour and grind of New York City. Brooks’ breakout success has led them into the high-stakes world of modeling, the social scene of Manhattan’s elite, and opened the door to a whirlwind of attention in their romantic lives. Set against the backdrop of Soho lofts, fashion campaigns and skyscraper dreams, Love Thy Nader explores the ultimate question of what it really means to “make it.” In a city where one can burn bright or go up in flames, sometimes the only thing truly needed is a sister who has your back.
The Terminal List: Dark Wolf (Prime Video) - Aug. 27
Co-created by The New York Times bestselling author of The Terminal List Jack Carr and season one creator-showrunner David DiGilio, The Terminal List: Dark Wolf is a prequel series with an origin story that follows “Ben Edwards” (Taylor Kitsch) throughout his journey from the Navy SEALs to the clandestine side of CIA Special Operations. The series is an espionage thriller that explores the darker side of warfare and the human cost that comes with it. It also features Chris Pratt reprising his role as “James Reece.”
My Life With the Walter Boys (Netflix) - Aug. 28
After leaving Silver Falls following Alex’s love confession and her kiss with Cole, Jackie Howard spent the summer in New York City. When Katherine convinces her to return to Colorado, Jackie is determined to make amends with Alex and set boundaries with Cole while finding her place within the Walter family. But fitting back in isn’t that easy. Alex – who changed a lot over the summer – isn’t too thrilled about Jackie’s attempts to reconnect, as he’s focused on training for a risky rodeo event (and enjoying all of the new attention he’s getting). Meanwhile, Cole takes on a new role at school, but when that doesn't quite fill the void left by not playing football, his old ways creep back in and cause drama. As Jackie gains acceptance in Silver Falls while trying to hold onto her Howard identity, she’s forced to make a choice that could destroy everything she’s worked to rebuild.
KPOPPED (Apple TV+) - Aug. 29
Starring Psy and Megan Thee Stallion, each episode finds Western chart-toppers teaming up with celebrated K-pop groups to reimagine one of their biggest songs, culminating in bold, collaborative stage performances. With just a short window to rehearse, these genre-bending partners deliver electrifying renditions for a live audience in Seoul, who vote for the standout “K-popped” performance of the night. After the song battle winner is determined, the K-pop Idols close out the episode with an exciting performance.