Frankie Muniz, best known for his role in the hit TV series “Malcolm in the Middle,” opened up in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE about his passion for race car driving and his parents’ feelings towards his chosen career path. Despite his success in the world of professional racing, Muniz revealed that his parents “still don’t like” that he has pursued a career as a race car driver. The 39-year-old actor shared that his love for cars dates back to his early childhood, even though his family was not involved in the racing scene.
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Growing up, Muniz was fascinated by Formula One, NASCAR, and IndyCar races, sparking his deep-rooted passion for speed and competition. Recalling his first taste of victory behind the wheel and the exhilarating feeling of crossing the finish line, Muniz highlighted how that moment kickstarted his journey towards becoming a professional race car driver. Despite not being raised in a family immersed in racing culture, Muniz’s love for the sport has remained unwavering throughout the years.
It was Muniz’s involvement in a pro celebrity race in Long Beach in 2004 that set the wheels in motion for his racing career. Winning that race was a pivotal moment for Muniz and led to him being approached by a professional racing team, Jensen Motorsport, marking the beginning of his venture into professional racing. Reflecting on the swift turn of events that propelled him into the world of professional racing, Muniz acknowledged the rapid progression of his career from actor to race car driver.
The transition from acting to racing provided Muniz with a different perspective on performance and success. Drawing a comparison between the subjective nature of acting and the objective outcomes of racing, Muniz emphasised the clarity that comes with the sport. He explained that unlike acting, where perceptions of one’s performance can vary, racing offers a straightforward evaluation of one’s skills and efforts, allowing him to continually strive for improvement.
While Muniz has set goals for himself in his racing career, he expressed a fundamental desire to always give his best and push himself to the limit on the racetrack. Balancing his passion for racing with his acting pursuits, Muniz recently delighted fans with news of a “Malcolm in the Middle” revival, where he will reunite with co-stars Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek for a limited series on Disney+. The announcement of the revival series has generated excitement among fans eagerly anticipating the return of the beloved sitcom.
Despite his dedication to racing, Muniz’s return to acting with the “Malcolm in the Middle” revival demonstrates his versatility and continued passion for entertainment. As he embarks on a new chapter in his racing career, Muniz’s journey serves as a testament to following one’s passions, overcoming challenges, and embracing opportunities for growth and reinvention. Fans can look forward to witnessing Muniz’s continued success both on the racetrack and on the screen, as he continues to pursue his dreams with unwavering determination and enthusiasm.