Actor Neal McDonough takes on a completely new and unexpected role in his latest project, Left Behind: Rise of the Antichrist, a movie directed by Kevin Sorbo. In the film, McDonough portrays Jonathan Stonagal, an influential and affluent character central to the story, which explores life after the biblical rapture. McDonough recently opened up about his experience in the movie and the fascinating character he plays during an interview with The Edifi Podcast.
Exploring Power and Corruption
McDonough shared his intrigue with powerful decision-makers and those who wield influence in our world. Playing a character who represents such a person, he found it “blessing” to be involved in a project that allowed him to explore the theme of power—how it is obtained, how it is used, and how it can either be for good or for ill. He believes that exposing these characters to audiences is a way to encourage viewers to be more discerning when it comes to the people who present themselves as leaders, only to serve their own interests.
The actor pointed out that Left Behind: Rise of the Antichrist is relatable because it touches on broader societal issues while also diving into the minute details of its characters’ lives, making the film both relevant and thought-provoking.
Faith and Family: McDonough’s Guiding Principles
Throughout his career, McDonough has openly discussed how his Catholic faith has shaped both his personal life and professional choices. In his conversation with The Edifi Podcast, McDonough expressed deep gratitude for his family, which includes his wife, Ruve McDonough, and their children. He emphasized how these blessings keep him grounded and inspire him to play roles that make him reflect on the fortune he has had.
While McDonough acknowledged that his acting career is fulfilling, he shared that nothing brings him more happiness than spending time with his family. His commitment to his loved ones is reflected in his personal boundaries, particularly in his refusal to participate in sex scenes, which allegedly led to his departure from the TV show Scoundrels in 2010. His decision to avoid on-screen intimacy, including kissing scenes, stems from his strong sense of personal integrity.
Parenting with Purpose
McDonough is passionate about being a father and takes great pride in instilling values such as hard work, integrity, and dedication in his children. Alongside his wife, he strives to ensure that their kids understand the importance of perseverance and self-reliance. McDonough also takes them to work on film sets, offering them hands-on experiences and valuable lessons about the entertainment industry. His emphasis on the importance of staying true to oneself and pursuing dreams resonates deeply with his children.
A Message of Faith and Integrity
When asked about the central message he hopes audiences take from Left Behind: Rise of the Antichrist, McDonough stressed the importance of having faith in both God and oneself. He encouraged viewers to trust in their abilities and to believe that God is always by their side, offering unwavering support. He also reminded people to hold onto their integrity despite life’s challenges, including facing criticism and dealing with temptation.
In closing, McDonough offered a powerful reminder for people to be resilient, stay strong in their faith, and continue to be true to who they are. His words serve as both a reflection of his own values and a message of encouragement for others to maintain their faith and integrity in the face of adversity.
