Neal McDonough Breaks Longstanding No-Kissing Rule in ‘The Last Rodeo’

Neal McDonough Breaks Longstanding No-Kissing Rule in ‘The Last Rodeo’

Neal McDonough, known for his dedication to a personal code against on-screen kissing, has taken a significant step in his latest film project. The actor has recently chosen to embrace a milestone moment by sharing a heartfelt kiss with Ruvé, the love of his life, in the film titled ‘The Last Rodeo.’

Returning to the Saddle

In an interview with Fox News Digital, McDonough discussed the thrill of diving back into the world of Westerns, where he has made a name for himself with roles in films such as ‘Yellowstone.’ More importantly, he expressed his excitement at finally being able to share a romantic moment on screen.

“I’ve ridden horses my whole life, but this time the saddle felt different,” McDonough shared. “For the first time, I’m not just a side character. I get to be the hero who finally kisses the girl.”

A Special Casting Decision

Convincing Ruvé to join the project was no easy task. She not only produced ‘The Last Rodeo’ but also played his on-screen wife, a role that included intimate scenes between the couple.

McDonough added, “I had to persuade Ruvé to be in the film. I told her it had to be her because I need to kiss the girl in the end. She was hesitant, saying, ‘I don’t know how to act.’ I told her, ‘Well, you do now.’”

Directed by a Close Friend

Jon Avnet, McDonough’s longtime friend and director, was behind the camera for this special scene. For McDonough, this moment was more than just a kiss; it symbolized years of love and commitment in a challenging industry. “This was one of my favorite moments on set,” he stated. “Wearing the title of the hero while being directed by my favorite filmmaker and kissing my wife was the ultimate experience.”

A Bit of Family Humor

The filming of the kissing scene also had some light-hearted moments, especially with their daughter, London, present on set. She provided a comedic subplot as her dad and mom filmed their romantic scenes. “London was there, and she said, ‘Dad, can you stop? Because I’m famous for one, maybe two takes,’ while we were going through take after take,” McDonough joked.

He continued, “As I tried to get the perfect shot, I heard her exclaim, ‘Oh dad, you’re grossing me out.’ It was certainly an interesting day filming those scenes.”

Celebrating Love on a Grand Scale

Despite the humorous interruptions, McDonough viewed this moment as an opportunity to showcase his affection for Ruvé on a grand stage. “To display my love for my wife in front of an 80-foot screen was a crowning achievement in my life,” he reflected.

He shared that the challenges he faced in Hollywood and the choices he made are now behind him. His career, guided by Avnet, has reached a meaningful apex. “Everything that I went through is now in the rearview mirror, and I couldn’t be happier,” he added.

Thematic Depth of ‘The Last Rodeo’

The film ‘The Last Rodeo’ is not just about love but also explores themes of faith, family, and redemption within the adrenaline-fueled world of bull riding. Avnet elaborated on the film’s narratives, discussing how he intertwined these elements to create a captivating story.

In a compliment that spoke volumes, Avnet praised McDonough, saying, “I always believed in Neal as an actor. He stands shoulder to shoulder with leading men like Clint Eastwood and John Wayne. His ability to convey profound emotions through subtle expressions makes him a powerful presence on screen.”

The Road to Authenticity

In addition to acting, McDonough also undertook significant preparation for his role as a retired rodeo legend. At a Professional Bull Riders event in Arlington, Texas, he explained the intensity of his training, which involved working closely with mechanical bulls.

“I put in a lot of hard work. For several months, it was mostly mechanical bulls, which is challenging and can really take a toll on you,” he stated. “I wanted every moment in the film to look 100% authentic.”

A Compelling Story

In ‘The Last Rodeo,’ McDonough portrays a retired rodeo star who is driven by love and desperation to compete in a high-stakes bull riding contest for his sick grandson. In tackling his own painful past, he strives to mend his relationship with his estranged daughter. Along the way, the film reveals that true courage lies in the fight for family.

Upcoming Release

Audiences can anticipate the heartfelt journey captured in ‘The Last Rodeo,’ which is set to hit theaters on May 23. This film promises to be an emotional ride through love, redemption, and the enduring spirit of family.

Report by Fox News Digital’s Larry Fink contributed to this article.