LOS ANGELES, CA—On September 8, 2025, Frankie Muniz shared a nostalgic gem on Joe Vulpis’ Lightweights podcast: at 14, he turned down hosting Saturday Night Live to chase a crush at the Kids’ Choice Awards. The Frankie-Muniz-SNL-Amanda-Bynes tale highlights a teen heartthrob moment that trumped a historic TV gig.
In 2000, FOX exec Gail Berman pitched SNL to Muniz, calling it a “huge deal” for one of the youngest hosts ever. But the Malcolm in the Middle star had already committed to co-hosting Nickelodeon’s awards with Amanda Bynes, his crush. “I was like, ‘No way, I’m meeting Amanda Bynes!’” Muniz recalled. For more celebrity scoops, visit People.
Despite pressure from FOX and his parents, Muniz stuck to his choice. “I met her briefly,” he laughed. Analyst Tara Kline quipped, “Muniz’s teen logic is peak relatable!” Check updates at Entertainment Weekly. At press time, X users buzzed over his charmingly awkward decision.