Key Highlights
- Frankie Muniz transitioned from acting to become a full-time NASCAR driver with Reaume Brothers Racing.
- He drives the No. 33 Ford F-150 in the 2025 Craftsman Truck Series.
- Muniz prefers NASCAR’s results-driven nature over the entertainment industry.
- Initial sponsorship struggles were overcome by securing major deals in March 2025.
- He balances NASCAR with a “Malcolm in the Middle” revival on Disney+.
Frankie Muniz’s Transition to NASCAR
Frankie Muniz’s change to NASCAR marks an exciting new chapter in his life, shifting from the world of acting to the high-speed thrill of racing. At 39, Muniz has welcomed this passion by becoming a full-time NASCAR driver with Reaume Brothers Racing, piloting the No. 33 Ford F-150 in the 2025 Craftsman Truck Series.
This shift is not just a career change, but a realization of a dream 20 years in the making. Muniz’s enthusiasm for racing has been evident, as he finds the results-driven nature of NASCAR more appealing compared to the subjective domain of acting.
“The one amazing thing about [NASCAR] that I love, definitely compared to being an actor, is it’s not subjective.” – Frankie Muniz
His move to NASCAR is fueled by a deep appreciation for the sport’s demands and the tangible results it yields. Muniz’s change reflects a dedication to mastering a new discipline, embodying the spirit of pursuing one’s passions with vigor and commitment, regardless of the challenges inherent in such a dramatic career shift.
“I definitely don’t get respect out there — 100%. Nobody goes with me. I think someone put me three-wide and pushed me up into the car that was on my outside, and we were out. I think we were close to the top 10, which is a great showing for my team.” – Frankie Muniz
Muniz’s NASCAR Challenges and Early Career Struggles
As Muniz accepts the world of NASCAR, he faces the inevitable challenges that come with stepping onto a new racetrack. His early career in NASCAR has been marked by a steep learning curve. Despite finishing a commendable 10th at Daytona, Muniz encountered difficulties at the 2025 Atlanta race. A late-race crash occurred after he was pushed into a challenging three-wide turn, cutting short his performance that day.
“I stayed in Daytona for Saturday and Sunday. Sunday for the [Daytona] 500, We were walking on the grid and the amount of Cup drivers and, you know, Jeff Gordon and everybody… Came up to me, and they obviously knew the result, and they’re like, ‘Oh, Congrats’! It felt really good to be, I don’t know, just to have a positive result.” – Frankie Muniz
Muniz has been frank about these challenges, acknowledging the hurdles while demonstrating a steadfast resolve to improve. His team and fans remain supportive, recognizing his potential and commitment.
These early struggles are not uncommon in NASCAR, yet Muniz’s dedication to refining his skills indicates a promising future. As he continues to learn and adapt, his resilience may well transform these challenges into stepping stones on his racing expedition.
Balancing NASCAR with Hollywood and the Malcolm in the Middle Revival
While juggling two demanding careers might seem challenging, Muniz is managing to find balance between his passion for NASCAR and his return to Hollywood. As he races towards his NASCAR ambitions, Muniz is also stepping back into the world of acting with the revival of “Malcolm in the Middle.”
Just started watching Malcolm in the Middle episode 1. Got 151 to catch up on before we start filming again in a few days!!! Can’t wait to get back together with my old family.
— Frankie Muniz (@frankiemuniz) March 24, 2025
In 2025, the beloved sitcom returns for four episodes on Disney+, rekindling his connection with the cast and audience.
- NASCAR Passion: Muniz is driven by his love for racing, dedicating time to honing his skills on the track.
- Hollywood Roots: The sitcom’s revival allows him to reconnect with his acting roots, bringing nostalgia to longtime fans.
- Time Management: Balancing racing and acting demands careful planning and dedication, highlighting his commitment to both fields.
- Revival Excitement: Muniz humorously mentioned catching up on old episodes, showcasing his enthusiasm for revisiting the iconic role.
Sponsorship Struggles and Triumphs in NASCAR
Steering through the world of NASCAR racing presents several challenges, and one of the most remarkable hurdles is securing sponsorships. Despite his previous fame, Frankie Muniz experienced financial struggles when he shifted to NASCAR. His path was marked by persistent efforts to secure financial backing, reaching out to hundreds of companies with little success.
Astonishingly, he received only one response, which he considered a minor achievement in the pursuit of his racing dream.
However, March 2025 became a crucial moment in Muniz’s NASCAR career. He landed substantial sponsorship deals, including a partnership with Ryder, a leading trucking and logistics company, and a four-race deal with Morgan & Morgan.
These sponsorships provided the critical support needed to enhance his competitive edge. Muniz’s persistence paid off, showcasing that even in the face of adversity, resolve can lead to victories, making his NASCAR path all the more inspiring and remarkable.
Frankie Muniz’s Growth and Future in NASCAR
Frankie Muniz’s perseverance in securing sponsorships has laid a strong foundation for his growth in NASCAR. Shifting from acting to racing, Muniz’s path highlights his dedication and passion.
His commitment is evident as he moves forward with major sponsors like Ryder and Morgan & Morgan, which enable him to compete more seriously in the NASCAR arena. This support emphasizes his potential for growth and success in this high-speed sport.
Looking toward the future, several key aspects of Muniz’s NASCAR path stand out:
- Resilience: Muniz’s ability to overcome setbacks highlights his resolve.
- Fan Inspiration: His shift inspires fans who admire his pursuit of multiple dreams.
- Sponsorship Backing: Key sponsorships are critical to his competitive edge.
- Track Progression: As he gains experience, his skills on the track will continue to develop.
News in Brief: Frankie Muniz Faces NASCAR’s Ruthless Competition
Frankie Muniz’s path from Hollywood to NASCAR highlights his resolve and adaptability, as he navigates the challenges of a new career while balancing his acting roots. Despite early struggles, his commitment to racing has led to notable growth and success. His experiences with sponsorship highlight both challenges and victories, reflecting his resilience. As Muniz continues to evolve in NASCAR, his story inspires others to pursue diverse passions, proving that career shifts can lead to unexpected accomplishments.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q: Did Frankie Muniz race in NASCAR?
A: In recent years, Frankie Muniz has balanced both racing and acting, making select NASCAR appearances while managing other projects. In 2024, he competed in four Truck Series races and two Xfinity Series events, marking his debut in NASCAR’s national divisions.
Q: Who is the NASCAR driver in Malcolm in the Middle?
A: Frankie Muniz set to star in ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ reboot. As a NASCAR driver and TV actor, he faces a demanding year balancing both careers.
ALSO READ: Frankie Muniz Lands Massive NASCAR Truck Sponsorship as Ryder Makes Racing Debut