Frankie Muniz offered a candid reaction to the Corey Heim Darlington NASCAR victory after being sidelined due to a recent wrist injury, missing the August 30 event at Darlington Raceway. The spotlight was on Heim as he secured his eighth win of the season at the historic South Carolina track, while Muniz found himself watching from afar.
Frankie Muniz’s Absence Due to Injury
Muniz was initially scheduled to compete in the 147-lap NASCAR event at Darlington Raceway, but an accident at his home changed his plans. The actor-turned-driver broke his wrist after a fall from a ladder, leaving him unable to race for several weeks. This injury has delayed Muniz’s progression in his racing career, which he has pursued with determination since stepping away from Hollywood.
Recalling past hardships, Muniz previously shared that he had suffered 38 bone fractures from 2006 to 2017 and was involved in a crash at the 2024 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Championship at Phoenix Raceway, though he escaped serious harm in that incident. His tenacity in the face of multiple injuries has remained a defining aspect of his public persona.
“The phrase “FML” (Frankie Muniz’s Life) takes on new meaning with moments like these. I’m disappointed to share that I won’t be racing at Darlington this weekend or for the next few weeks due to a distal radius fracture.”
—Frankie Muniz, Actor and NASCAR Driver
“Note to self: heed the ladder warning that says, “Do not sit or stand on top step.” In hindsight, a taller ladder would’ve been smarter. While I’m gutted to miss the races, I’m grateful it wasn’t worse,” he added.
—Frankie Muniz, Actor and NASCAR Driver
Corey Heim’s Commanding NASCAR Season
As Muniz was sidelined, Corey Heim seized the opportunity to further his lead in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Heim, piloting the No. 11 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for Tricon Garage, clinched his eighth win in the Sober or Slammer 200, strengthening his reputation as one of the series’ top performers. The FOX: NASCAR on X social media account celebrated Heim’s victory, capturing his steady drive in those final laps.
While watching the highlights, Muniz reposted the footage and quipped, “Just lucky I wasn’t there…😉”. The interplay underscored Muniz’s competitive drive, even as he recovers, highlighting the camaraderie and rivalry that define the sport.
Mason Maggio Steps in for Muniz
During Muniz’s recovery, Reaume Brothers Racing quickly moved to fill the No. 33 Ford F-150 seat. The team selected Mason Maggio as the temporary replacement, announcing the news and expressing their hopes for Muniz’s recovery and return to the team soon.
“Frankie Muniz was involved in an accident at his home in Arizona yesterday morning, where he suffered a distal radius fracture in his wrist,” Reaume Brothers Racing wrote in its official statement. “Currently, there is no timeline for his return.”
—Reaume Brothers Racing, Official Statement
“Our focus is on a speedy recovery and competing together again soon. Mason Maggio will race the No. 33 this weekend in place of Frankie,” RBR further stated.
—Reaume Brothers Racing, Official Statement
Maggio made his debut in Muniz’s place during the Darlington race, but unfortunately, his run ended with a DNF, ranking 26th out of 32 trucks. As the team looks ahead to the next competition at Bristol, the replacement driver for that event remains unannounced, leaving uncertainty about the team’s lineup during Muniz‘s ongoing recovery.
Looking Forward for Frankie Muniz and NASCAR
Frankie Muniz, best known for starring as the title character in the sitcom Malcolm in the Middle and for roles in films such as Agent Cody Banks and Big Fat Liar, continues to balance his fame from acting with his passion for racing. His determination to return to the track after numerous injuries demonstrates his resilience. As Corey Heim’s commanding season continues and Muniz recovers, the NASCAR community and fans are eager to see when the actor-turned-driver will make his comeback, and how teams like Reaume Brothers Racing will adapt in the interim.
The unfolding story of Muniz’s recovery and Heim’s continual victories adds momentum and intrigue to the current NASCAR season, shining a light on the perseverance of its drivers and the ever-changing nature of motorsports competition.
