Frankie Muniz is navigating the demands of balancing NASCAR racing and acting career commitments, as he prepares for the release of the Malcolm in the Middle reboot and continues his first full season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. During recent interviews, Muniz addressed his ongoing involvement in both industries and spoke candidly about his mental health challenges along the way.
Maintaining Dual Careers in Racing and Acting
Frankie Muniz, widely recognized for his work on television, is currently competing in the #33 Ford F-150 for Reaume Brothers Racing. Although he finished his 2023 ARCA Menards Series season in fourth place—a solid accomplishment for a rookie—Muniz is still establishing himself within the fiercely competitive pickup truck series.
The actor and driver acknowledged that he has not abandoned acting, despite his intense focus on racing. After wrapping production on the anticipated Malcolm in the Middle reboot, Muniz told Beating and Banging that he continues to participate in the entertainment industry through movie projects and TV guest appearances. He stated:
“A lot of people think that I completely stepped away from the business or I left the business. I’ve always kind of been working […] Like really every year I’ve worked as an actor. I’ve just never fully pursued it.” —Frankie Muniz, Actor and NASCAR Driver
Muniz shared that acting remains less demanding for him compared to other ventures he has explored. Reflecting on his experiences in music, business, and now motor racing, he commented:
“I had such a great time,” the NASCAR driver said… “It [acting] also at the same time felt unbelievably easy, and maybe that comes from the fact that I’ve been trying to do things that are harder for me, right? For the last couple of years, I’ve been focused on racing or even when I was in a band or business.” —Frankie Muniz, Actor and NASCAR Driver
Despite the challenges of racing and the time it demands, Muniz made it clear he is receptive to future acting offers:
“I’m not going to shy away from it is kind of what I’m saying for sure in the future.” —Frankie Muniz, Actor and NASCAR Driver
Fans anticipating the Malcolm in the Middle reboot can look forward to four new episodes set for release this year. Meanwhile, Muniz remains determined to break through in his rookie NASCAR campaign, where he has experienced both highs and struggles. After an impressive 10th-place finish at Daytona International Speedway, Muniz has faced setbacks, recording five DNFs and an average finish of 25.3 in his first 10 races.
Frankie Muniz Opens Up About Mental Health After Racing Setbacks
Earlier this season, Muniz revealed he struggled emotionally following disappointing performances in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. His feelings reached a significant low point after the Black’s Tire 200 at Rockingham Speedway, where a mechanical failure with his truck’s power steering resulted in a prolonged pit stop and a 23rd-place finish. Muniz addressed his state of mind on social media, writing:
“If I’m being 100% honest… Mentally/emotionally, I may be at a new low. Just wanted to say it out loud.” —Frankie Muniz, Actor and NASCAR Driver
Muniz later explained in an interview that while his post was sparked by racing challenges, it was not strictly about racing or acting. Public interest increased after YouTuber Mr. Beast responded to his candid remarks, but Muniz clarified that his emotions were complicated by several factors rather than a single event.
As Frankie Muniz continues balancing NASCAR racing and acting career moves, his openness about both his ambitions and his vulnerabilities gives fans deeper insight into the pressures he faces. With a new chapter ahead in entertainment and an ongoing quest for racing achievement, Muniz’s journey remains one that blends resilience with a willingness to embrace future possibilities.
