Actor Neal McDonough has spoken candidly about the impact of his refusal to kiss other women on-screen, a decision he made to uphold his personal morals and commitment to his wife, Ruvé. During a recent appearance on the podcast “Nothing Left Unsaid,” McDonough revealed that his stance led to what he describes as a blackballing from Hollywood. He explained that this rule, which he included in his contracts, prevented him from participating in roles that involved such scenes, leading to a significant downturn in his career.
The decision had far-reaching consequences for McDonough, who described how Hollywood essentially turned against him, depriving him of his identity as an actor. He recounted the emotional and professional toll, stating, “Hollywood just completely turned on me. I lost everything you could possibly imagine.” This includes not just financial assets but also his self-confidence and overall sense of self-worth.
McDonough admitted to struggling with the aftermath, but a turning point came when he decided to quit drinking. He shared that this decision led to a profound change, allowing him to regain his sense of purpose and identity. “I stopped drinking, and everything just kind of changed. Literally, the clouds parted,” he said. “I don’t need this crutch. People are calling me. I am successful. I do like myself again. I am God’s child, and I have a job to do.” This shift marked a significant moment in his life, leading to a renewed sense of confidence and direction.
Despite the challenges, McDonough eventually broke his no-kissing rule for the role in ‘The Last Rodeo,’ a Western project directed by his longtime friend Jon Avnet. The decision required convincing his wife, Ruvé, to appear in the film as his on-screen wife. She played a pivotal role in the production, and her participation was crucial to the success of the film.
McDonough emphasized that the on-screen kiss in ‘The Last Rodeo’ was a significant moment, not just for the film but also for his personal journey. It represented the culmination of years of dedication to his marriage and the challenges of maintaining personal values in a competitive industry. His story serves as a reminder of the personal and professional sacrifices that come with staying true to one’s beliefs in the entertainment industry.