Frankie Muniz has revealed he hasn't spoken to Hilary Duff in 22 years following their work on the 2003 film 'Agent Cody Banks,' blaming interference from Duff's mother in the casting process. The actor shared the story on 'The Joe Vulpis Podcast,' expressing regret over letting the incident end their friendship. Muniz described how Duff's mother allegedly went behind his back to secure the role for her daughter, despite initial plans for another actress.
Background on the Feud
Frankie Muniz and Hilary Duff first connected as rising teen stars in the early 2000s. Duff's Disney series 'Lizzie McGuire' premiered in 2001, while Muniz's Fox sitcom 'Malcolm in the Middle' debuted in 2002. Their friendship blossomed, with Muniz even appearing as himself in an episode of 'Lizzie McGuire.'
During a visit to Duff's dressing room, Muniz casually mentioned his upcoming project, 'Agent Cody Banks,' to Duff's mother, Susan Duff. He explained it was a film where he played a junior James Bond-like character. According to Muniz, Susan Duff inquired if the female lead was cast yet. At the time, the production was considering 'Smallville' star Kristin Kreuk for the role of Natalie Connors, Cody's love interest, which Muniz had envisioned while reading the script.
The Casting Interference
The next morning, Muniz said Susan Duff informed him that Hilary had been signed for the part overnight. 'Her mom’s like, ‘Guess what? We’re going to be spending the summer together… she’s doing “Cody Banks” with you… They signed the contract last night,’' Muniz recounted. Shocked, he thought, 'The movie you knew nothing about yesterday?'
Muniz's agents confirmed calls had been made about casting Duff, assuming it would be fine given their existing friendship. However, Muniz felt undermined, believing he had influence over the co-star choice at that stage in his career. 'Needless to say, I wasn’t thrilled about it. And not because I didn’t want it to be Hilary,' he clarified.
Impact on Set and Aftermath
Production proceeded with Muniz and Duff as leads in the action comedy, directed by Harald Zwart and released by MGM in March 2003. The film grossed nearly $60 million worldwide, featuring supporting roles by Angie Harmon, Keith David, and Ian McShane. Muniz reprised his role in the 2004 sequel, 'Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London,' without Duff.
Muniz admitted the tension soured his interactions, particularly when Susan Duff visited the set. 'I was very sad when Hilary’s mom would come on set,' he said. The fallout led to no contact since the final day of filming. Reflecting on it, Muniz expressed guilt: 'I regret not just continuing to be friends with her because we had a great friendship for such a long time, and I let her mom… it pissed me off.' He hopes to reconnect someday, believing Duff may be unaware of the behind-the-scenes drama.