Frankie Muniz Says He Hasn’t Spoken to Hilary Duff in Over 20 Years After ‘Agent Cody Banks’ Casting Fallout

Key Points

• Frankie Muniz revealed he has not spoken to Hilary Duff in more than two decades.

• The estrangement dates back to a casting dispute during the 2003 film Agent Cody Banks.

• Muniz says he felt excluded from casting discussions involving his then-close friend.

• He clarified the issue was not personal with Duff, but with how the decision was handled.

• The two former child stars never reconciled after filming ended.

A Childhood Friendship Ends Behind the Scenes

Frankie Muniz is opening up about a long-standing break in communication with former co-star Hilary Duff, tracing the rift back more than 20 years to the making of Agent Cody Banks.

Speaking on a recent podcast, the Malcolm in the Middle alum said the fallout stemmed from a casting decision that abruptly ended what he described as a “really, really good” friendship during their early Hollywood years.

How ‘Agent Cody Banks’ Sparked the Divide

Muniz and Duff were close in the early 2000s after Muniz moved to Los Angeles. Their friendship extended into professional territory, with Duff even inviting Muniz to appear on her hit Disney Channel series Lizzie McGuire.

According to Muniz, tensions arose during pre-production on Agent Cody Banks. He recalled mentioning his upcoming role to Duff’s mother, who asked whether there might be a part suitable for Hilary. Muniz said the conversation seemed casual at the time.

The situation escalated quickly. Muniz said he arrived on set the following day to learn Duff had already been cast as his co-star, with contracts finalized overnight.

Feeling Sidelined in the Process

Muniz stressed that his frustration was not directed at Duff herself. Instead, he said he was upset that producers moved forward without consulting him, particularly after seeking his input on casting matters.

The speed of the decision and the way it unfolded left him feeling bypassed, a sentiment that lingered throughout production. Muniz also noted that Duff’s mother’s presence on set contributed to an uncomfortable working environment.

No Reconciliation After Filming Wrapped

According to Muniz, the tension never eased once filming concluded. He said the two young stars did not mend their relationship and have not spoken since the final day of production in 2003.

The revelation offers a rare look at how behind-the-scenes decisions can permanently alter personal relationships, especially for young actors navigating fame early in their careers.

What Happens Next?

While Muniz’s comments reopen a chapter from early-2000s Hollywood, he did not suggest any plans to reconnect. For now, the story stands as a candid reflection on how industry dynamics can leave lasting personal consequences long after the cameras stop rolling.