Bryan Cranston has opened up about the reason behind Erik Per Sullivan's decision to turn down the Malcolm in the Middle revival. In a recent episode of Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade, Cranston revealed that Sullivan has left Hollywood to pursue a career in academia.

Cranston, 69, shared that he spoke with Sullivan, who played the role of Dewey Wilkerson in the hit show, and was told that he had no interest in returning to the series. "He's actually going to Harvard," Cranston explained. "He's really, really smart, and he's getting his master's at Harvard right now. He said, 'Oh God, no, I haven't acted since I was 9 or something. So I'm not into it.'"

The Malcolm in the Middle revival, which will air on Disney+, will feature a limited four-episode run. The show originally aired from 2000 to 2006 and won seven Emmy awards during its run. Cranston, who played the role of Hal, was instrumental in getting the revival off the ground, saying that he "wore down" series creator Linwood Boomer to agree to the revival.

The revival will feature the return of Frankie Muniz, Christopher Masterson, and Jane Kaczmarek, who played the Wilkerson family matriarch Lois. However, the role of Dewey will be played by Wynonna Earp alum Caleb Ellsworth-Clark.

Related News:

• Gerard Butler's Emotional Tribute to Late Mother in How to Train Your Dragon

• Sabrina Carpenter Claps Back at Critics of Her Risqué Performances

• Benny Blanco Would Rather Stay Home Than Perform Live: 'Worst Nightmare'

Stay up to date with the latest entertainment news by signing up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter.