Veteran Hollywood actor Neal McDonough opened up about his recent portrayal in the upcoming apocalyptic feature “Homestead,” drawing on personal faith as the film’s studio unveils its theater release for the current year.
Mr. McDonough, 58, assumes the character of Ian Ross, a prosperous settler, in the suspenseful narrative by Angel Studios. The company is renowned for producing the acclaimed faith-centered series “The Chosen” and bringing last year’s sleeper hit “Sound Of Freedom” to cinemas.
Recognized for his antagonistic portrayals in both cinematic and televised domains, notably in Paramount+’s “Yellowstone,” Mr. McDonough deviates from typecasting to embrace the role of Ian, a Rocky Mountain dweller who is confident in handling crisis until he is faced with ethical dilemmas amid societal turmoil.
The narrative nuances delve into Ian’s internal strife as he grapples with his spouse’s convictions juxtaposed against the harsh truths of survival, each decision laden with profound repercussions.
Mr. McDonough reflected on the character in a recent Instagram post: "To me, Ian is all of us. Just a man trying to do right by his conscience—the commitments he’s made to his wife and family, to his God, and to his fellow man,” he wrote.
Personal convictions have marked Mr. McDonough’s journey in the entertainment industry, notably his stance against on-screen intimacy driven by his devout Catholicism. In 2010, the actor claimed he was fired from the ABC series “Scoundrels” because he refused to do on-screen sex scenes. As a devout Catholic, he had a no-kissing rule during his stint on “Desperate Housewives” as well. He claims that this led to him being blacklisted in the industry.
Following adversity, Mr. McDonough’s collaboration with Graham Yost, previously associated with “Band of Brothers,” ushered in a transformative opportunity in “Justified,” where Mr. McDonough’s portrayal transitioned from villainy to virtuousness, a departure welcomed by the actor.
Mr. McDonough’s recent work includes a role in season 10 of “American Horror Story.” His portrayal of President Dwight D. Eisenhower expands his acting range and suggests a potential return to characters associated with moral authority.
In the film “Greater,” Mr. McDonough embodied the character of Marty, a figure of paternal guidance rooted in faith, echoing the actor’s convictions. Recently, Mr. McDonough had the opportunity to play a good guy in the film “Boon.” He reportedly described it as an amazing experience, especially since he hadn’t often played such characters.
