The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe 437: Neal McDonough—Clear the Mechanism
May 20, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Neal McDonough, a seasoned character actor known for his villainous roles, shares insights into his latest film, The Last Rodeo, where he finally gets to kiss his wife, Ruvé. He discusses the intense dynamics on set with Sylvester Stallone and reflects on crucial career advice from Clint Eastwood. Neal humorously touches on aging in Hollywood, the emotional weight of storytelling, and the importance of family and community through the lens of rodeos.
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Real-Life Love in The Last Rodeo
- Neal McDonough and his wife Ruvé star in "The Last Rodeo," a film about a rodeo star returning to bull riding to save his grandson. - Neal insisted on kissing only his real wife on screen, reflecting his personal values and commitment.
Bull Riding Training and Injury
- Neal trained intensively on mechanical bulls to authentically portray a bull rider in The Last Rodeo. - He once dislocated his shoulder on set but self-relocated it to continue filming.
Clear the Mechanism Focus
- 'Clear the mechanism' means achieving total focus by shutting out distractions to perform at your best. - Neal McDonough likens this focus to the intensity needed by great bull riders in their dangerous sport.