Actor and race car driver Frankie Muniz has been discharged from a hospital after 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 held Wednesday night on Daytona’s road course in Florida.
“I’m saddened that I can’t participate in Ford’s Proud to Honor event this evening,” Muniz expressed in a statement prior to the race. “I was eager to pay tribute to our veterans and compete alongside these incredible drivers.”
He mentioned feeling a “bit sore,” but noted that the Mustang he was driving provided adequate protection.
“I want to extend my gratitude to everyone at Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, and the hospital staff,” Muniz added. “I especially appreciate all the messages and prayers from everyone.”
Muniz, along with NASCAR driver Austin Cindric, was scheduled to represent Team Air Force in an exhibition race that benefits six non-profit organizations dedicated to supporting U.S. military and veteran communities through the Proud to Honor Fund, as reported by NASCAR.
From Actor to Driver
Muniz received an Emmy nomination and two Golden Globe nominations for his performance in Malcolm in the Middle and was one of the most recognized child actors during his era. His film credits include Big Fat Liar, Deuces Wild, Agent Cody Banks, and Racing Stripes.
According to his official website, Muniz stepped back from acting in 2006 to focus on professional race car driving.
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 started his racing career in the Formula BMW USA Championship and later competed in the Champ Car Atlantic Championship from 2007 to 2009. Muniz finished fourth in the 2009 championship standings, but a season-ending injury required several surgeries, according to his website.
In 2024, Muniz participated in 38 races within both the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts and truck series.
Over the last three years, he has taken part in 117 truck series races, achieving one Top 10 finish at Daytona in 2025.