Frankie Muniz becomes full-time NASCAR driver in 2025 Craftsman Truck Series

Frankie Muniz, widely recognized for his iconic role in Malcolm in the Middle, is taking a major step forward in his racing career as he transitions to become a full-time NASCAR driver in the 2025 Craftsman Truck Series.

At 38 years old, Muniz has long harbored a deep passion for motorsports, and this announcement marks a significant milestone in his journey from the entertainment industry to professional racing.

He will be driving the No. 33 F-150 for Reaume Brothers Racing, competing at one of NASCAR’s highest levels, joining the ranks of professional stock car racers in a series renowned for its fierce competition and high-speed action.

Muniz’s journey into racing started in 2004, but he officially began his professional career in 2006. Over the years, he competed in various motorsports, from open-wheel racing to stock cars, slowly building his skills and credibility in the racing world.

In 2023, Muniz competed in the ARCA Menards Series, where he achieved an impressive fourth-place finish in the overall standings, securing one top-five finish and 11 top-ten finishes, a testament to his commitment and racing ability.

Reflecting on his upcoming debut, Muniz expressed his excitement and fulfillment in achieving his lifelong dream of becoming a NASCAR driver. “I grew up watching NASCAR, and now I get to be a part of it," Muniz told PEOPLE in an exclusive interview. "This has been a dream of mine for forever."

For Muniz, joining one of NASCAR's three top national series is more than just a career shift—it's the culmination of years of dedication, training, and relentless pursuit of his passion for motorsports.

Preparing for the 2025 season, Muniz is fully committed to excelling in his new role. He has immersed himself in training, spending hours in the Ford Performance simulators, working closely with engineers, crew chiefs, and his team at Reaume Brothers Racing to ensure he is at peak performance for the upcoming season.

“I’ve literally dedicated my life to this,” he said, emphasizing how focused he is on becoming a competitive force in the Craftsman Truck Series. Muniz added that he’s eager to prove himself to NASCAR fans, hoping to shed the “actor-turned-driver” label and be recognized as a legitimate and serious competitor on the track.

While Muniz acknowledges that acting still holds a special place in his life, he’s clear that his primary focus is now on racing. The 2025 Craftsman Truck Series will be a pivotal opportunity for him to turn heads and make a name for himself in the world of motorsports.

As he works towards the next season, Muniz is determined not only to compete but to carve out a lasting legacy in NASCAR, showing fans that his passion and commitment are as strong as any seasoned driver in the field.