Actor-Turned-NASCAR Driver Reveals Dale Earnhardt’s Final Message to Him Hours Before His Death

NASCAR has had its share of celebrities and glamor. But most of it has been from the outside. The tracks have largely been reserved for full-time, professional drivers who would happily take the risks that come along with racing. That, however, has changed with the latest addition to the drivers’ list. And again, the inspiration comes from Dale Earnhardt.

Frankie Muniz, an actor made famous by his role in the sitcom, Malcolm in the Middle, recently announced his decision to move to a full-time racing role. That’s a transition very few have made. He also shared his connection with the sport on a show.

USA Network reported his statements from the show: “In 2001, I was in the pace car for the Daytona 500. Sterling Marlin, who drives the number 40 car, he was either on pole or first or second, so he was right behind me in the pace car. So there’s actually a video of me in the pace car and the only car you see is that number 40 Coors Light Sterling Marlin car.”

“That day, I was in Kenny Schrader’s pit, so he gave me the M&Ms jacket. I have three signatures on that jacket, Kenny Schrader, Sterling Marlin and Dale Earnhardt.”

Dale Earnhardt Jr Pays Tribute to “One of the Nicest Guys” as Key JR Motorsports Man Announces Retirement

Dale Earnhardt has been a hero to many – the reason so many drivers decided to take up racing. So many years since his sad demise, he continues to inspire drivers to join NASCAR.

The tragic meeting with Dale Earnhardt

Just before the race began, Muniz got the chance to meet his hero. Obviously, as a 15-year-old, that was a moment of great joy and ecstasy for the boy. But he didn’t know what that day in Daytona had to offer.

“So, Dale Earnhardt, he came up to me at the driver’s meeting, actually, and he told me ‘I just have to say, I’m a huge fan, your show has brought me and my daughter so much closer.’ I was 15 at the time, I was the hugest NASCAR fan. I was in awe that a hero of mine was saying he was a fan of mine.”

Within hours of that meeting, and getting that jacket signed by 3 NASCAR greats, Muniz heard the bad news. Waiting in his hotel, he heard of the accident. All three of the drivers had been involved.

“I had never cried that hard in my life,” he said as he spoke about getting to know of Dale Sr’s death. That moment was a sad moment for everyone in NASCAR, and Muniz found himself sandwiched right between that.

Watch This Story: Kevin Harvick Announces New Future Right After Retirement

From the inexplicable high of being complimented by Dale Sr, to the unbearable low of hearing of his death. It was a day Muniz would’ve wanted to remember, but now he can’t forget.