Frankie Muniz: self-proclaimed best actor-turned-racer ever

IMDb has quoted former Malcom in the Middle star and current Pacific Coast Motorsports driver Frankie Muniz as saying, "I don't want to sound conceited, but I don't think there has been an actor or celebrity-turned-racecar driver that has made it as high up on the racecar circuit as I have. So I don't think there's anyone who can keep up with me. And that's just me being honest." In case folks missed the press release, Muniz turned his focus away from his acting career and devoted his efforts to auto racing after winning the 2005 Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach Celebrity Race. He joined the Formula BMW series in 2006, finishing a season high of 16th. Last year saw the erstwhile child star running in the Champ Car Atlantic series where he managed to creep into the top 10 at one event. Not much of a stellar track record as racing goes.

Conceited may not be the right term, but uninformed might be. It seems that Mr. Muniz needs a lesson in automotive racing history. Over the years there have been quite a few racing actors. Names such as Steve McQueen and Paul Newman immediately leap to mind, both producing notable results at prestigious events. McQueen finished second overall at the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1970, and 1979 saw Newman do the same at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. A little humility might be in order for the young actor/racer.

Thanks for the tip, Tom!

[Source: Internet Movie Database]