Frankie Muniz explains how he avoided infamous child star downfall and details ‘roller coaster of emotions’ of racing career

Frankie Muniz says he avoided the pressures often associated with child stardom because he never depended on fame or public approval. The former Malcolm in the Middle actor has moved through racing, music and business, and says choosing those interests for himself has helped him handle the changes in his career.

Now 40, Muniz describes professional racing as an emotional roller coaster because results are objective and can turn on other drivers’ mistakes or mechanical failures. He says he has become better over the past two seasons at focusing on the next race instead of dwelling on setbacks. He continues to race for Ford and recently returned to acting with a four-episode Malcolm in the Middle revival; Bryan Cranston, his on-screen father, remains a role model.