Frankie Muniz, best known for his lead role in “Malcolm in the Middle,” is set for a major year in 2026 as he balances a renewed presence in Hollywood with ongoing competition in the NASCAR Truck Series. His return to television coincides with plans to continue his NASCAR career, keeping both his acting and racing passions alive.
From Sitcom Star to Full-Time Racer and Back
Frankie Muniz’s journey has been marked by significant shifts, starting as a child actor who became a pop-culture mainstay through his portrayal of Malcolm. By the 2020s, however, he had reinvented himself, earning new respect as a driver in the NASCAR ARCA Menards, Xfinity, and Truck Series. After piloting the No. 33 Ford F-150 Raptor for Reaume Brothers Racing throughout the 2025 season, Muniz has firmly established his racing credentials.
While Hollywood often immerses celebrities in dramatized races, Muniz stands out for bringing this fantasy to reality, unlike notable peers such as Brad Pitt, who played a racer in “F1: The Movie” but never set foot in a professional competition. Over the past few years, Muniz has turned a handful of lower NASCAR series entries into a full roster of races, solidifying his credentials as a legitimate competitor.
Muniz to Lead TV Reboot With Original Cast
Muniz’s acting roots run deep, his fame peaking in 2003 when he was considered one of Hollywood’s most promising young stars. Just as many expected him to pursue bigger roles, he surprised fans by pausing his acting career to commit to professional racing, making waves after winning the Celebrity category at the 2005 Toyota/Pro Celebrity Race.
Now, Muniz is set to reprise his iconic character as part of a “Malcolm in the Middle” reboot. Most of the original cast will return, marking an on-screen homecoming for fans old and new. Reflecting on his experience making the reboot, Muniz shared,
“One interesting thing … it was the first time in my entire life that, when I was done filming the reboot, I was happy to call myself an actor.”
—Frankie Muniz, Actor
Muniz admitted that his priorities had shifted over time, with acting once feeling routine compared to his later passion for NASCAR. He explained that as a young actor, he followed directions without grasping the significance of the role’s impact on the audience. However, working on the reboot made him appreciate his acting roots, and he quickly rekindled the on-screen chemistry with his fellow cast members.
Continuing His Racing Ambitions in 2026
Despite a successful Hollywood comeback, Muniz has no intention of stepping away from racing in 2026. Instead, he is gearing up for a demanding schedule, planning to participate in both the NASCAR Truck Series and the Mustang Challenge Le Mans Invitational – Dark Horse Stars class, where he will drive the Ford Mustang GT4 for Techsport Racing, alongside his familiar No. 33 Ford F-150 for the newly renamed Team Reaume.
Addressing speculation about retirement, Muniz clarified his position:
“If I’m being 100% honest, I really thought that last year was gonna be my final year racing,”
—Frankie Muniz, Driver
“Just because of the amount of time and focus and everything that goes into being a driver at the top level.”
—Frankie Muniz, Driver
The upcoming NASCAR Truck Series will see Muniz tackle a hectic slate of 25 races. He acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains determined to give his best effort. With an energetic approach, he signals that his racing journey is far from over, driven by a sense of “unfinished business” in the sport.
Now at 40, Muniz is aware that NASCAR is often seen as a younger athlete’s world. Despite this, he takes pride in holding a valid NASCAR license and is motivated to achieve longstanding goals. His ongoing presence in the sport demonstrates a unique crossover between entertainment and motorsport that few have managed to balance.
A Look Ahead for Muniz’s Dynamic Career
Frankie Muniz’s story continues to captivate longtime viewers and new fans alike, as he finds ways to bridge his Hollywood success with his drive on the race track. By taking on leading roles both on television and in NASCAR events, Muniz sets a compelling example of someone who refuses to give up on either of his passions, inspiring a wide range of audiences. As he embarks on another demanding NASCAR season while entertaining fans in a high-profile sitcom reboot, Muniz remains a dynamic figure to watch in both worlds.
