Frankie Muniz, known for his starring role in Malcolm in the Middle, recently discussed the end of his close friendship with Hilary Duff, shedding light on events surrounding the filming of Agent Cody Banks. The two actors, once close friends during the early days of their careers in Los Angeles, have not spoken in over two decades, mainly due to issues involving Hilary Duff’s mother—a revelation that has brought the topic of “Frankie Muniz friendship Hilary Duff” back into the spotlight.
During an appearance on The Joe Vulpis Podcast, Muniz revisited the start of their friendship. He recalled that their first meeting led to a strong bond, with Hilary Duff inviting him onto an episode of Lizzie McGuire. Muniz said the pair enjoyed a genuine and supportive relationship for several years as their early careers grew side by side in the competitive world of Hollywood.
How an Unexpected Audition Changed Everything
The friendship began to unravel during the production of Agent Cody Banks in 2002. While filming a guest spot on Lizzie McGuire, Muniz had a tense interaction with Hilary Duff’s mother inside the dressing room, describing her as the quintessential “stage mom” whose intensity often overshadowed her daughter’s own easygoing nature. Duff’s mother inquired about Muniz’s upcoming projects, specifically interested in opportunities that could involve Hilary.
Muniz noted he was then working on Agent Cody Banks, explaining to Duff’s mother that there was a female lead role, but he wasn’t sure about the casting direction. He admitted he had hoped Kristin Kreuk, known for her role on Smallville, would land the part of Natalie Connors, but the situation took a quick and unexpected turn.
Hilary Duff’s Sudden Casting in Agent Cody Banks
The next day, Muniz arrived on set and was greeted by Duff’s mother, who excitedly revealed that Hilary had been cast as his co-star in Agent Cody Banks. Muniz, having believed that casting decisions would involve his input, was blindsided. He contacted his agents to clarify how such an important choice had bypassed his involvement, particularly since producers apparently presumed Muniz would prefer Duff because of their friendship and his work on her show.
We became really, really good friends. We had a really great relationship for a long time. She asked me to do Lizzie McGuire, which I was like, ‘Yeah!’
Frankie Muniz
Her mom was, I’m gonna say the epitome of a stage mom. Momager. She was intense. Hilary was so cool, we had an awesome relationship, but her mom was super intense.
Frankie Muniz
And she’s like, ‘Is there a girl that could be Hilary, that would be good for Hilary?’ And I was like, ‘Yeah, but I dunno.’
Frankie Muniz
I looked at her and I went, ‘No she’s not!’ She’s like, ‘No, yeah, yeah, she is. They signed the contract last night.’ And I’m like, ‘The movie you knew nothing about yesterday, you signed — how — it’s not possible! It’s not humanly possible.’
Frankie Muniz
And not because I didn’t want it to be Hilary. Just because they went around me.
Frankie Muniz
The Friendship Fades After Filming
Despite the shared history, after production on Agent Cody Banks finished, Muniz and Duff never spoke to each other again. This sudden silence was especially painful for Muniz, who stated he had always valued their friendship. Duff’s mother’s frequent presence on set and the feeling of being sidelined during crucial decisions left a lasting impact on Muniz.
I’ve never talked to Hilary since the last day of filming. I’ve not said one word to her since then. So that’s the truth that no one knows about.
Frankie Muniz
Regret and Hopes for Reconnection
Now years later, Muniz admits he regrets that the fallout led to the end of his friendship with Duff. He reflects on their once-strong bond and expresses a desire to reconnect and discuss what happened, believing Hilary Duff may never have been aware of the real reasons behind their drifting apart.
I would love to catch up with her. I would love to even talk about that, ’cause I’m sure she doesn’t know any of that happened.
Frankie Muniz
Muniz’s openness has sparked public interest in the dynamics between rising teen stars and those managing their young careers. The story provides insight into the pressures young actors face, especially when intertwined with assertive family involvement, rapid fame, and industry expectations. Whether a future reunion will occur remains uncertain, but Muniz’s candid account offers a rare glimpse into the challenges that can disrupt long-standing friendships in the entertainment world.
