Frankie Muniz, known for his Hollywood career, embarked on full-time competition in the NASCAR Truck Series in 2025. Though he had previously appeared in select racing events, the actor’s commitment to NASCAR has drawn significant criticism, with some doubting his place in the sport. Despite this, reigning NASCAR Cup Series star Kyle Larson has publicly defended Muniz, emphasizing that his presence in the series is well-earned.
Currently driving the No. 33 truck for Reaume Brothers Racing, Muniz’s results have been modest, including just one top 10 finish this season and an average placement outside the top 25. Alongside his racing, Muniz remains active in entertainment, recently participating in a mini reunion of the Fox sitcom Malcolm in the Middle, the show that brought him fame in the early 2000s. This dual focus has fueled criticism from traditional NASCAR fans, who often expect drivers to prioritize racing entirely.
Kyle Larson, however, highlighted that Muniz’s ability to secure a full-time position in one of NASCAR’s three main series proves his capability as a competitor. Larson pointed out that landing a ride in any NASCAR championship requires genuine talent and is not simply handed to celebrities.
Anybody racing in any of the three series has talent and ability enough to be there.
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR driver
The Impact of Equipment and Opportunity on Muniz’s Performance
Larson also suggested that Muniz’s current equipment may not fully showcase his potential on the track. Competing with Reaume Brothers Racing, a smaller team, Muniz may lack access to the top-tier trucks that enable drivers to challenge for wins consistently. Larson expressed hope that Muniz will one day be in a better car or truck, allowing him to demonstrate his true skill.
I just hope that he can get into a situation someday where you can really see his talent from being in a car or a truck that is better equipped to go run towards the front. You want to see him succeed because if he does succeed, it’s only going to do good things for our sport.
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR driver
Larson believes that if Muniz achieves success on the track, it could benefit NASCAR by attracting a broader fanbase, including some who might follow Muniz as a Hollywood figure entering motorsports.
Dispelling Rumors About Financing His Racing Career
Racing in NASCAR, particularly for smaller teams, demands significant financial resources, often exceeding millions of dollars annually. Concerns and rumors have circulated suggesting that Frankie Muniz self-funds his Truck Series efforts through his Hollywood earnings. However, Muniz has clarified these speculations, denying that he contributes financially to his racing endeavors.
Owner of Reaume Brothers Racing, Josh Reaume, acknowledged that one season running a truck can cost more than $3.5 million, underscoring the financial burden teams carry. Despite this, Muniz emphasized a personal commitment to his family by refusing to use his own money for racing, a stance he hopes will end the circulating claims.
I don’t spend any of my money going racing. I made a promise to my wife that I would not do that. So, I can kill that rumor right there.
—Frankie Muniz, NASCAR Truck Series driver
Challenges Ahead as Muniz Strives to Prove Himself on Track
Despite the hardships and skepticism from some corners of the NASCAR community, Frankie Muniz remains determined to develop as a full-time competitor in the Truck Series. The criticisms mainly stem from his background in acting and his relatively modest race results to date. Nevertheless, continuous improvement through experience on the track could help silence those doubting his legitimacy as a driver.
The ongoing debate around Muniz’s presence in NASCAR highlights the tensions within the sport about crossover figures from entertainment and other public realms. At the same time, supporters like Kyle Larson advocate for recognizing talent regardless of a driver’s background. Larson’s comments underscore a broader message that earning a ride in NASCAR speaks volumes about a driver’s skill and dedication.
As the Truck Series season unfolds, the spotlight on Muniz’s performance will intensify, making his progress pivotal not only for his career but also for how NASCAR navigates celebrity participation moving forward.
