Actor Neal McDonough, known for roles in Yellowstone and Desperate Housewives, recently shared how standing by his beliefs nearly ended his career. On the Nothing Left Unsaid podcast (July 30, 2025), McDonough revealed, “I wouldn’t kiss another woman on screen. It was my choice, not my wife’s—I didn’t want to put her or our kids through that.”

That personal decision led to major career setbacks. “Hollywood just turned on me… I lost everything. Not just work and money, but my identity,” he said. For two years, he couldn’t find roles and turned to drinking during that difficult time.

Eventually, McDonough found strength through faith and family. “Sometimes you need to be crucified to realize what life is really about,” he said. He gave up drinking and returned to church, regaining purpose and clarity.

Now 59, McDonough says, “I’m busier than ever.” His latest film, The Last Rodeo, features a rare onscreen kiss—with his real-life wife, Ruve. “I said, I’m not doing it unless you play my wife,” he added.