Disney+ once again revived the wrong sitcom (because life is unfair)

As a devoted fan who grew up with the magic of Lizzie McGuire and Malcolm in the Middle, I find myself torn between elation and dismay. On one hand, it’s thrilling to see Malcolm return after all these years, but on the other, it feels like a bitter pill that Disney+ continues to greenlight revivals for shows while seemingly shutting the door on Lizzie McGuire.

In 2024, we continue to push for justice regarding Lizzie McGuire, despite other ’90s sitcoms resurging in popularity. However, the recent announcement of another revival of a beloved 2000s TV show on Disney+ only intensifies my sense of frustration.

December 13 saw Disney+ unveil an exciting, unexpected announcement: “Malcolm in the Middle” is making a comeback with four fresh episodes featuring Frankie Muniz, Bryan Cranston, and Jane Kaczmarek reprising their iconic roles. (At this point, we don’t have information about other cast members returning.) The actors shared videos to express their delight and share the fantastic news with fans.

Apart from Muniz, Cranston, and Kaczmarek reprising their roles as Malcolm, Hal, and Lois, the four revival episodes of Malcolm in the Middle originate from Linwood Boomer, the show’s original creator. These episodes will also be directed by Ken Kwapis, who helmed 19 episodes across seasons 1-5.

The upcoming four comedic episodes (I mention the number since it’s really just four) are set in modern times, with Lois and Hal organizing their 40th wedding anniversary celebration. Malcolm, accompanied by his wife and daughter, is expected to join the festivities. Typical of “Malcolm in the Middle,” expect plenty of laughter and disorder. However, one may wonder if four episodes and an anniversary are sufficient reasons for a comeback?

Lizzie McGuire deserves Malcolm in the Middle’s revival

To put it simply, while it’s noteworthy that “Malcolm in the Middle” is coming back for a special streaming event, this doesn’t necessarily threaten the show’s esteemed history. It’s not an aggressive move against any other sitcom either. However, it’s hard not to feel a pang of disappointment seeing Disney+ keep on producing reboots and revivals, especially when a beloved 2000s sitcom like “Malcolm in the Middle” didn’t get another chance despite wanting it.

Hey there! Do you recall back in August 2019, just before Disney+ debuted, I was thrilled when Hilary Duff, my favorite star from Lizzie McGuire, announced the eagerly awaited revival of our beloved series? As we moved into fall, cameras started rolling and most of the original cast returned. However, by early 2020, the revival began to crumble as Disney had concerns about it being family-friendly. Sadly, they ended up canceling Lizzie 2.0.

As someone passionate about “Lizzie McGuire,” it’s frustrating to witness a company and platform that seemingly ignored one of its most successful and impactful shows, along with its talented cast, offering opportunities to other productions. Given that “Malcolm in the Middle” has been granted four new episodes, couldn’t Disney+ show some goodwill by re-releasing the two “Lizzie McGuire” revival episodes that were previously filmed?

A revival series with only four 30-minute episodes might be one of the shortest orders ever, and it seems quite meager. It offers a brief glimpse before disappearing within two hours. While there are advantages to a limited run, I can’t help but feel Disney didn’t fully honor Duff’s work in this case. (And let’s not begin on How I Met Your Father.) Four episodes? Really?

To set the record straight, I’m thrilled that “Malcolm in the Middle” is making a comeback. It’s a show I adore, one that was part of my childhood along with “Lizzie McGuire.” Given its long run, immense popularity, and Emmy nominations, you’d think more people would be reminiscing about it. In fact, without “Malcolm,” we might not have enjoyed shows like “The Middle” and “The Goldbergs” in recent times.

The show deserves this moment to ring in 25 years in style. I just wish Disney had granted Lizzie her moment, too. You know, she’s also celebrating 25 years in 2026… Just saying.

2024-12-14 01:28

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