8.522 minSeason 7 • Episode 22
LatestMalcolm struggles with his speech when he's elected valedictorian of his graduating class at school. However, Lois refuses to listen to any of his complaints and reveals that she wants him to become President of the United States. Meanwhile, Reese does everything he can to get a permanent job as a high school janitor, which includes creating the most disgusting mess ever. In the meantime, Hal has problems with Malcolm's Harvard tuition, while Francis finally gets a real 9-5 job that he actually enjoys. Also returning for the family celebrations is Grandma Ida, as they all say goodbye to Malcolm when he leaves for college.
Acting
Jane Kaczmarek's Lois is the sitcom mom that broke the mold.
Writing
Sharp social satire disguised as family chaos.
Direction
Single-camera freedom before it was everywhere.
Creator
Linwood Boomer
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Bryan Cranston performed nearly all his own physical comedy stunts, including the iconic roller skating scene. This directly led to Vince Gilligan casting him as Walter White.
Malcolm pioneered the single-camera, no-laugh-track family sitcom format that Modern Family and The Office later perfected—essentially killing the traditional multi-camera sitcom.
US
