Frankie Muniz, best known for his role in the iconic TV series “Malcolm in the Middle,” is transitioning from the entertainment world to the high-speed realm of professional racing. The 38-year-old actor has set his sights on qualifying for the NASCAR Xfinity Series’ opening race at Daytona International Speedway, marking a significant milestone in his racing career, which began in earnest just a year ago.

Frankie Muniz’s Journey to NASCAR

In an interview with the Associated Press, Muniz shared his excitement and apprehensions about the upcoming racing season. Last year, he made waves in the racing community by finishing fourth overall in the ARCA Series, an entry-level league in professional racing. Throughout the 20-race season, Muniz even found himself in the first-place position at times, demonstrating his potential on the track.

However, Muniz acknowledges that stepping up to the NASCAR Xfinity Series will be a formidable challenge. “The only thing I can compare it to is like going to a new school,” he explained. “You can feel like you’re the man in one school, and you go to that new school, you’re like, ‘I don’t know anybody. Are people going to welcome me here?’”

A Dream Reignited by Family

Muniz’s passion for racing is not new. He has been driving competitively for years, but it wasn’t until the birth of his son, Mauz Mosley Muniz, in 2021 that he decided to fully pursue his childhood dream. “It hit me when I had my son,” Muniz told PEOPLE. “I want him to grow up seeing me reach for my dreams and work hard for something that I’m passionate about.”

This renewed motivation led Muniz to chase “unfinished business” in the racing world. His wife, Paige Price, has been a supportive partner throughout this journey, helping him balance his personal and professional life.

Challenges Ahead in the NASCAR Xfinity Series

Despite his success in the ARCA Series, Muniz is aware that the NASCAR Xfinity Series is a different ball game. “I’m excited to prove to people that I can race in this series,” he said. “I know it is not going to be easy.” He is determined to showcase his skills and overcome the self-doubt that naturally comes with such a significant step up in competition.

Muniz’s competitive spirit and the ticking clock on his career add urgency to his aspirations. “I don’t have 10 years of opportunities. I gotta make this happen right now,” he emphasized. His eagerness to compete for wins is tempered by a realistic understanding of the challenges ahead.

The Origins of Muniz’s Racing Passion

Muniz first “caught the bug of wanting to be a driver” in 2004 after winning a tournament in Long Beach. His journey since then has been marked by a steep learning curve, but his ultra-competitive nature has kept him pushing forward. He believes that his personality and drive will be crucial assets as he navigates the complexities of professional racing.

A Possible “Malcolm in the Middle” Revival

Beyond racing, Muniz has expressed interest in a potential revival of “Malcolm in the Middle.” In a recent interview, he revealed that Bryan Cranston, who played his on-screen father, Hal, has been working on a script for a reunion. Muniz, now 36, reflected on his time on the show with newfound appreciation. “When I was filming the show, I obviously was a kid. We did seven seasons, 151 episodes. I didn’t really watch the show when it was on, but I’ve now since watched the show with my wife [Paige Price].”

Muniz’s enthusiasm for a revival is shared by his former cast members, and while nothing is confirmed, the possibility of reuniting with his “Malcolm in the Middle” family remains a tantalizing prospect.

Conclusion

Frankie Muniz’s journey from child star to professional racecar driver is a testament to his versatility and determination. As he prepares to compete in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Muniz continues to inspire with his relentless pursuit of dreams and his ability to reinvent himself. Whether on the racetrack or potentially back on our TV screens, Muniz’s story is one of passion, resilience, and unfinished business.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What inspired Frankie Muniz to pursue racing seriously?
Frankie Muniz was inspired to pursue racing seriously after the birth of his son in 2021. He wanted to set an example for his son by chasing his dreams and working hard for something he is passionate about.

2. How did Frankie Muniz perform in the ARCA Series?
Muniz finished fourth overall in the ARCA Series last year and even held the first-place position at times throughout the 20-race season.

3. What are Muniz’s thoughts on competing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series?
Muniz is excited but realistic about the challenges of competing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He acknowledges that it will be a significant step up from the ARCA Series.

4. Is there a possibility of a “Malcolm in the Middle” revival?
Yes, there is a possibility of a “Malcolm in the Middle” revival. Bryan Cranston is working on a script, and Muniz has expressed his enthusiasm for reuniting with his former cast members.

5. How does Muniz view his time on “Malcolm in the Middle” now?
Muniz has a newfound appreciation for his time on “Malcolm in the Middle.” Watching the show with his wife, he has come to realize the quality and impact of the series, which he didn’t fully appreciate as a young actor.