rankie Muniz, best known for his role as the titular character in the hit sitcom Malcolm in the Middle, once turned down a historic opportunity to host Saturday Night Live (SNL) in 2000 due to a teenage crush on actress Amanda Bynes. Here’s a detailed summary of the incident:

🎭 1. The SNL Offer

In 2000, at the age of 14, Muniz was offered the chance to host SNL after the success of Malcolm in the Middle. At the time, he would have been one of the youngest hosts in the show’s history . Fox executive Gail Berman personally called Muniz’s mother to convey the excitement around the offer, emphasizing its significance .

💖 2. The Conflict: Kids’ Choice Awards and Amanda Bynes

Prior to the SNL offer, Muniz had committed to co-hosting the 2000 Kids’ Choice Awards, where Amanda Bynes was also presenting. Muniz had a significant crush on Bynes and was eager to meet her . When he learned that the SNL hosting gig would conflict with the Kids’ Choice Awards, he immediately declined the offer, stating, “Oh, hell no. I am going to the Kids’ Choice Awards… I’m meeting Amanda Bynes” .

😮 3. Reactions from Executives and Family

Muniz’s decision stunned industry executives and producers, who tried to convince him of the importance of hosting SNL. For about a week and a half, he faced pressure from Fox and Regency TV executives, but he remained firm, citing his prior commitment and his desire to meet Bynes .

🎬 4. Aftermath and Later Collaboration

Muniz attended the Kids’ Choice Awards and briefly met Bynes. Two years later, they co-starred in the film Big Fat Liar (2002), alongside Paul Giamatti . Despite missing out on the SNL opportunity, Muniz continued to have a successful career, including recent news of a Malcolm in the Middle reboot titled Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair, set to release in December 2025 on Disney+ .

💎 Conclusion

Muniz’s decision, driven by teenage infatuation, highlights the whimsical priorities of youth amidst Hollywood pressures. While he missed a chance to make SNL history, the story remains a charming example of how personal desires can sometimes overshadow professional milestones. For more details, you can refer to the sources cited above.