Neal McDonough: A Man Of Faith, Family, And Hollywood Success

You might not immediately recognize Neal McDonough's name, but chances are, you've seen his work. From heroic roles in Band of Brothers and Flags of Our Fathers to his more villainous performances in Desperate Housewives and Justified, Neal's career has been nothing short of impressive. In a candid chat with Closer, Neal joked about writing a memoir titled Just Famous Enough, a playful nod to his status as an actor who's beloved by fans but remains humble about his fame. It seems like this book might actually happen sooner than later.

At 52, Neal remains deeply committed to his wife, model Ruvé Robertson. Their partnership is so strong that Neal has a steadfast rule: no love scenes. This decision once cost him a role on the short-lived series Scoundrels back in 2010. But Neal stands firm, saying, "These lips are meant for one woman, and that’s Ruvé." Together, they've built a beautiful family with five children, ranging in age from 4 to 13, all of whom are the center of Neal's universe.

Neal's latest project finds him stepping into the shoes of a 1950s Air Force general in the History series Project Blue Book. In this role, he's tasked with keeping UFO sightings under wraps. Despite the secretive nature of his character, Neal was anything but guarded when speaking with Closer. He opened up about his career, family, and the values that guide his life both on and off the screen.

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Hero or Villain? Neal Breaks Down His Role in Project Blue Book

When asked whether his character in Project Blue Book is a hero or a villain, Neal offers a thoughtful response. It's not about being good or bad; it's about being a patriot. "He’s going to do the right thing for his country, no matter what," Neal explains, emphasizing the character's unwavering dedication to his nation.

Finding Common Ground: Neal Connects With His Character

Neal shares a deep connection with the characters he portrays, especially those who embody a love for their country. "I believe the US is the greatest country ever, just like my character," he says. His father's journey from Ireland to the United States, where he proudly served in the Army, has instilled in Neal a profound sense of patriotism. This passion shines through in his performances, whether it's in Band of Brothers or Flags of Our Fathers.

UFOs and Faith: Neal's Take on the Unknown

As a devout Catholic, Neal approaches the concept of UFOs with an open mind. "Who are we to say that God might not have plans in other places?" he muses. For Neal, the possibility of extraterrestrial life isn't far-fetched. Instead, it's a testament to the vastness of creation and the mysteries that remain undiscovered.

Lessons From Immigrant Parents

Growing up with parents who immigrated from Ireland, Neal learned the value of hard work early on. After serving in the Army, his father worked at the Ford assembly line before venturing into real estate. Eventually, they purchased a small hotel on Cape Cod, where Neal spent his formative years. "He taught me that if you work hard, great things will happen," Neal reflects, crediting his father for instilling a strong work ethic that has guided his career.