In the high-stakes world of NASCAR, drivers live for those checkered flags, pouring everything into outpacing rivals on the track. Yet, amid the roar of engines and pursuit of victory, personal milestones often eclipse even the biggest wins, like becoming a father or grandfather. Take Denny Hamlin, who skipped the 2025 Cup Series race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City to be present for his son’s birth, prioritizing family over competition. As Jeff Burton once put it, “You now have something that’s bigger than you,” capturing how fatherhood reshapes priorities.
Kenny Wallace, the ever-smiling veteran from St. Louis who earned nine Xfinity Series victories during his career from 1988 to 2015, embodies that blend of racing grit and family devotion. Known as “Herman” for his resemblance to the old cartoon character, the 62-year-old former driver and current broadcaster has always shared his life openly, from his 41-year marriage to Kim to raising three daughters, Brooke, Brandy, and Brittany. With a personality that lights up any room, Wallace often reflects on how family moments bring unmatched joy, far beyond any podium finish. Now, he’s experiencing that warmth anew, sparking a wave of heartfelt responses.
Through his X post, Kenny Wallace shared the exciting news of becoming a grandfather for the sixth time, welcoming a baby girl named Leni into the family. “Our 6th grandbaby is here and healthy ❤️ Leni is a girl ❤️ Thank you God 🏁,” he posted, radiating gratitude in a simple yet emotional announcement that quickly resonated with followers. This moment builds on Wallace’s long-standing role as a family man, starting from his early days in Missouri, where he grew up racing alongside brothers Rusty and Mike, influenced by their father, Russ, a short-track legend.
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Our 6th grandbaby is here and healthy ❤️
Leni is a girl ❤️
Thank you God 🏁
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— Kenny Wallace (@Kenny_Wallace) September 15, 2025
By 2021, Wallace already had three grandchildren with a fourth expected, and his active life post-retirement, including dirt-track racing and podcasting, has kept him connected to fans while cherishing these expansions to his close-knit clan. Wallace has long expressed how grandfatherhood reignites life’s spark, once stating, “There truly is no better feeling in the entire world. In a strange way, becoming a grandfather is like starting your life over. I’m Papa to Charlotte – or ‘Lottie,’ as we call her – because that’s what my girls called my father.”
This sentiment ties back to his own upbringing in a racing family, where he honored traditions by adopting the “Papa” nickname from his dad. After stepping away from full-time NASCAR in 2015 due to exhaustion from constant travel, Wallace shifted focus to broadcasting for FOX and dirt events, allowing more time for family bonds that he values deeply. Inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2023, his legacy extends beyond 547 Xfinity starts to these personal triumphs that highlight his approachable, joyful nature.
As Wallace’s announcement lit up social media, the NASCAR community responded with an outpouring of support, reflecting the strong ties he maintains with fans through his candid online presence.
The community celebrates the new arrival
One fan captured the collective warmth by noting, “Congratulations Kenny and Kim. Hope Momma and Baby Leni are well.” This message underscores Wallace’s public sharing of family life, much like when he detailed plans to spoil Kim on her special day, treating her to casino outings and gifts, showing how his partnerships extend to everyday joys. Fans often see this side of him on social platforms, where he posts about everything from racing memories to personal milestones, fostering a sense of inclusion that makes such well-wishes feel personal.
Shifting to the shared experiences among supporters, another chimed in with, “Congratulations to you all! Not much beats being a grandparent. Had our first in July.” It echoes Wallace’s own transition from driver to grandfather, a phase he embraced after retiring, as he reminisced about exhaustion from the circuit but found renewal in family roles. His induction into the hall of fame and continued involvement in broadcasting keep him relatable, drawing parallels from fans navigating similar life stages.
The focus on the whole family shone through, “Congratulations, Kenny. Hope Momma is good as well. Kim’s probably grinning ear to ear.” Wallace’s 41-year marriage to Kim, whom he met in his early racing days, has been a constant thread in his stories, from early life in St. Louis to current adventures. Fans pick up on this enduring bond, often highlighted in interviews where he credits her support during his 344 Cup starts.
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“Where I’m from, the grandpa always buys the grandchildren their first car. Wow, 6 cars. 🚗 🚙 🚘 🏎 🚙 🚗 😂” This playful nod ties into Wallace’s racing roots, where he began competing in 1982 and later mentored through his broadcasts, often joking about life’s expenses. His background in a multi-generation racing family adds layers, as fans imagine him passing on traditions like car gifting in a lighthearted way.
Wrapping up the cheers, one enthusiast added a fun twist: “Congratulations, Grandpa Herman, I hope you are getting the girl her first milk bottle sponsored by Sunoco & dress sponsored by Jegs 😂.” Referencing his “Herman” nickname from his upbeat personality, this reflects Wallace’s history with sponsors during his career peaks in the 1990s. His engaging style, seen in reminiscences about his father’s rare photos from the 1970s, keeps fans entertained and connected.