Actor and race car driver Frankie Muniz has been discharged from a hospital after experiencing a crash during practice laps 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 on Wednesday night at the road course in Daytona, Florida.
“I’m really disappointed that I can’t participate in Ford’s Proud to Honor event tonight,” Muniz stated in a release prior to the event. “I was eagerly anticipating honoring our veterans and competing against these incredible drivers.”
Muniz mentioned he felt “a bit sore,” but credited the Mustang he was driving for keeping him safe.
“I want to express my gratitude to everyone at Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, and the hospital staff,” Muniz remarked. “A special thank you to all who have reached out and sent their prayers.”
According to a NASCAR announcement, Muniz and NASCAR driver Austin Cindric were scheduled to represent Team Air Force in an exhibition race that supports six non-profit organizations aiding U.S. military and veteran communities through the Proud to Honor Fund.
From Actor to Racer
Muniz received an Emmy nomination and two Golden Globe nominations for his role in Malcolm in the Middle and was among the most recognized child stars of his era. His film credits include Big Fat Liar, Deuces Wild, Agent Cody Banks, and Racing Stripes.
As per his official website, Muniz stepped away from the entertainment industry in 2006 to pursue a career in professional racing.
Frankie Muniz is captured racing during qualifying for a NASCAR truck series auto race 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 subsequently competed in the Champ Car Atlantic Championship from 2007 to 2009. Muniz finished fourth in the 2009 championship standings, but a season-ending injury led to several surgeries, 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.