Malcolm in the Middle is to return for a limited run of four new episodes after almost 20 years off screens.

The comedy ran for seven seasons between 2000 and 2006 and followed a dysfunctional American family centred chiefly around the 'middle' son Malcolm (Frankie Muniz).

Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek played the exhausted parents, while Christopher Masterson, Justin Berfield and Erik Per Sullivan played the other sons.

Disney+ has now confirmed the four new episodes, complete with video messages from Muniz, Cranston and Kaczmarek - although the participation of Masterson, Berfield and Per Sullivan has yet to be revealed.

The storyline for the revival will see Malcolm and his daughter drawn into the family's chaos when Hal (Cranston) and Lois (Kaczmarek) demand his presence for their 40th wedding anniversary party.

"Malcolm in the Middle is a landmark sitcom that captured the essence of family life with humour, heart and relatability," said Disney Television president Ayo Davis.

"Its hilarious and heartfelt portrayal of a lovably chaotic family resonated with audiences of all ages, and we're so excited to welcome the original cast back to bring that magic to life again.

"With [creator] Linwood Boomer and the creative team at the helm, these new episodes will have all the laughs, pranks, and mayhem fans loved - along with a few surprises that remind us why this show is so timeless."

20th Television president Karey Burke added: "Malcolm in the Middle literally changed the face of the television comedy landscape when it premiered two decades ago, redefining what the genre could be.

"When Linwood Boomer suggested it might be time to bring everyone's favourite dysfunctional family back for a bit of a reunion, we couldn't think of a more iconic and influential series to revisit, along with a truly brilliant cast to reunite."

The new episodes are likely to be released in late 2025.