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Frankie Muniz is set to fully embrace his role as a NASCAR driver.
The 38-year-old former star of Malcolm in the Middle, who initiated his racing career in 2004 and turned professional in 2006, is joining Reaume Brothers Racing as the full-time driver of the No. 33 F-150 for the upcoming 2025 season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
“While I wouldn’t say it’s a long time coming, this has always been a dream of mine,” he shared in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.
“I initially pursued open wheel racing, thinking I would go the IndyCar or Formula 1 route. However, NASCAR was always in the back of my mind. I grew up watching it and was an avid fan, but I never imagined that I’d actually have the chance to compete,” Muniz explained.
Frankie Muniz at the Circuit of The Americas.
FIA World Endurance Championship/Instagram
His announcement follows a year in which he participated in the ARCA Menards Series, achieving one top-five finish and 11 top-ten finishes, culminating in a fourth-place points finish overall. In the same year, since joining Ford Performance, he has competed in select races in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and the Mustang Challenge Series.
Muniz expresses that becoming a full-time competitor in “one of the three major NASCAR series” is “extremely thrilling,” even though he acknowledges that he has “a lot to prove to both myself and everyone else.”
“I want everyone to understand that I have fully committed my life to this,” he states. “You know? I truly love racing. When I’m not behind the wheel, I’m thinking about being in the car. I’m training, utilizing the simulator at Ford, collaborating with my engineers and crew chiefs, and doing everything I can. I’m reviewing footage and studying past races at the tracks I’ll be competing on to ensure I’m as prepared as possible.”
Although Muniz notes that the idea of “closing the door” on his acting career has not been a significant topic of discussion, he is currently focused on his pursuit of becoming a professional race car driver.
“I just hope to demonstrate that I can excel in both areas. That’s my goal. While I can’t predict the outcome, I’m optimistic about making that happen this season,” he shares with PEOPLE, expressing his desire for fans to recognize the dedication and effort he and his team are putting in.
A crew member assists with the #22 Ford Performance Ford, driven by Frankie Muniz, during practice for the NAStruck Craftsman Truck Series Rackley Roofing 200 at Nashville Superspeedway on June 28, 2024, in Lebanon, Tennessee.
James Gilbert/Getty
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“A kid from Malcolm in the Middle is racing in NASCAR. That’s the narrative people have, but here I am, making it a reality,” Muniz remarks, emphasizing his determination to “make an impact.”
“My ambition goes beyond just making it to NASCAR — I want to be the driver that fans think of when they consider the truck series. I want them to say, ‘I want to watch Frankie; he’s competitive and skilled,'” he asserts. “So, I’m doing everything within my power to achieve that.”
From Child Star to NASCAR Racer: Frankie Muniz Takes the Wheel Full-Time in 2025
Frankie Muniz: A Brief Background
Frankie Muniz is best known for his role as Malcolm in the hit television series Malcolm in the Middle. Born on November 5, 1985, in Wood-Ridge, New Jersey, Muniz began his career in the entertainment industry at a young age. With his quick wit and charming personality, he quickly became a household name. However, his interests extend far beyond acting. In recent years, Muniz has transitioned into the world of motorsports, and he’s gearing up for an exciting full-time career in NASCAR starting in 2025.
The Shift to Motorsports
Frankie Muniz has always had a passion for racing. His journey into motorsports began as a hobby, but it quickly evolved into a serious pursuit. Here are some key milestones in Muniz’s racing career:
- Participation in celebrity races and local events.
- Training and competing in the ARCA Menards Series.
- Making his NASCAR debut in the 2021 season.
- Accumulating a growing fan base among racing enthusiasts.
Why NASCAR?
For Muniz, NASCAR represents the perfect blend of competition, adrenaline, and community. His decision to transition to a full-time NASCAR career is fueled by several factors:
- Passion for Racing: Muniz has expressed a lifelong love for cars and speed, making NASCAR a natural fit.
- Adrenaline Rush: The thrill of racing provides an adrenaline rush that is hard to replicate.
- Community Engagement: NASCAR has a welcoming community that allows Muniz to connect with fans and fellow racers.
Preparing for Full-Time Racing in 2025
As Muniz gears up for his full-time racing career in 2025, he is taking several steps to prepare himself and ensure success:
Training Regimen
To transition from acting to racing, Muniz has committed to an intense training regimen that includes:
- Regular driving simulations to enhance his skills.
- Physical training to build endurance and strength.
- Nutrition plans to maintain peak performance levels during races.
Building a Support Team
Muniz understands the importance of having a solid support team in place. His team includes:
- Experienced crew members who specialize in NASCAR.
- Mentors from the racing community providing guidance.
- Sponsors to help fund his racing endeavors.
Benefits of Transitioning to NASCAR
Making the leap from child star to NASCAR racer might seem unconventional, but it offers several benefits:
- New Opportunities: Muniz can explore a new career path that allows him to pursue his passion.
- Fan Engagement: His celebrity status brings a unique perspective to the racing community, attracting new fans.
- Personal Growth: The challenges of racing will help Muniz develop skills that can be applied to various aspects of life.
Challenges on the Road Ahead
While the path ahead is filled with excitement, Muniz will also face challenges:
- Intense Competition: NASCAR is home to some of the best drivers in the world, and Muniz will need to prove himself on the track.
- Media Scrutiny: As a former child star, Muniz will likely face increased media attention and scrutiny.
- Balancing Career Changes: Transitioning from acting to racing requires careful management of time and resources.
First-Hand Experience: Frankie Muniz’s Racing Journey
In interviews, Muniz has shared insights into his racing journey. One key takeaway is his determination to succeed despite the obstacles he faces. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication:
“I’ve faced challenges before, but racing is a different ballgame. It’s about pushing your limits and never giving up on your dreams.”
Fan Reactions and Community Support
Muniz’s transition to NASCAR has garnered considerable interest from fans and the racing community alike. Here’s how different groups have reacted:
- Fans: Many fans are excited to support Muniz’s new venture, viewing it as an opportunity to witness a familiar face in a new arena.
- NASCAR Community: Fellow racers and industry insiders have expressed support, acknowledging Muniz’s dedication and passion.
- Media Coverage: The media has been eagerly covering his journey, with articles and interviews highlighting his efforts.
Case Study: Other Celebrities in NASCAR
Frankie Muniz isn’t the only celebrity to make a name for themselves in the NASCAR world. Here are a few notable examples:
| Celebrity | Role in NASCAR | Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Danica Patrick | Driver | First woman to win a NASCAR Cup Series poll. |
| Jeff Gordon | Driver | Four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion. |
| Kevin James | Celebrity Race Participant | Participated in celebrity racing events. |
Practical Tips for Aspiring Racers
For those looking to follow in Muniz’s footsteps, here are some practical tips to get started in NASCAR:
- Start with Karting: Begin racing at a young age in go-karts to develop fundamental skills.
- Participate in Local Races: Gain experience by competing in local racing events and leagues.
- Seek Sponsorship: Establish connections with local businesses to secure funding for racing activities.
Conclusion
Frankie Muniz’s journey from child star to full-time NASCAR racer is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passions. As he prepares for an exciting 2025 season, fans and racing enthusiasts alike eagerly anticipate the next chapter in his remarkable career.
