Actor and race car driver Frankie Muniz has been discharged from a hospital after being involved in a practice-lap accident at Daytona International Speedway.
The 40-year-old, known for his role in Malcolm in the Middle, was preparing for a Veterans Day charity race that occurred Wednesday night on Daytona’s road course in Florida.
“I am saddened that I won’t be able to participate in Ford’s Proud to Honor event this evening,” Muniz stated in a release before the event. “I was eager to pay tribute to our veterans and compete against such incredible drivers.”
Muniz mentioned that he felt “a bit sore,” yet praised the Mustang he was driving for providing him with adequate protection.
“I want to express my gratitude to everyone at Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, and the medical staff here at the hospital,” Muniz expressed. “I particularly appreciate everyone who has reached out and offered prayers.”
Muniz and NASCAR driver Austin Cindric were scheduled to represent Team Air Force in an exhibition event that supports six non-profit organizations aiding U.S. military and veteran communities through the Proud to Honor Fund, as stated in a NASCAR announcement.
From Actor to Driver
Muniz received an Emmy nomination and two Golden Globe nominations for his role in Malcolm in the Middle, and he was among the most recognized child actors of his era. His film career includes titles such as Big Fat Liar, Deuces Wild, Agent Cody Banks, and Racing Stripes.
As per his website, Muniz stepped away from the entertainment industry in 2006 to chase a career in professional race car driving.
Frankie Muniz is captured racing during qualifying for a NASCAR truck series event at Daytona International Speedway, in Daytona Beach, Fla., on Feb. 14, 2025. (Phelan M. Ebenhack/The Associated Press)
He began his racing career in the Formula BMW USA Championship and later competed in the Champ Car Atlantic Championship from 2007 to 2009. Muniz secured fourth place in the 2009 championship standings, but an injury that required multiple surgeries ended his season prematurely, according to his website.
In 2024, Muniz participated in 38 races each in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts and truck series.
Over the past three years, he has taken part in 117 truck series races, achieving one Top 10 finish at Daytona in 2025.