Neal McDonough’s Heartfelt Kiss in ‘The Last Rodeo’ Breaks His No-Kissing Rule

Actor Neal McDonough, known for his steadfast refusal to kiss on-screen due to his devotion to his wife, Ruvé, finally broke his own rule in a heartfelt scene for the upcoming film The Last Rodeo. For the first time, McDonough shared a cinematic kiss with Ruvé, who also served as a producer and played his on-screen wife, marking a milestone in both their personal and professional lives.

In an interview, McDonough shared his excitement about stepping into the role of a Western hero, a departure from his past projects like Yellowstone. "I’ve ridden horses my whole life, but this saddle felt different," he said, describing the thrill of being the leading man who gets to "kiss the girl in the end." Convincing Ruvé to act wasn’t easy—she initially balked, saying she didn’t know how to act, to which McDonough quipped, "Well, you do now."

Directed by Jon Avnet, a longtime friend, the kiss wasn’t just a scene but a celebration of McDonough’s faith and 20-year marriage. The moment turned comical when their daughter, London, cringed on set, groaning, "Dad, you’re grossing me out," as McDonough playfully insisted on extra takes. "There I was, wearing the hero hat, kissing my wife, directed by my mentor—it’s the greatest feeling," he said.

The Last Rodeo dives into the high-stakes world of bull riding, weaving themes of faith, family, and redemption. McDonough plays a retired rodeo legend risking it all in a dangerous competition to save his sick grandson, confronting his past and mending ties with his estranged daughter. Avnet praised McDonough’s grit, likening him to Western icons like Clint Eastwood and John Wayne for his understated yet powerful presence.

To prepare, McDonough endured grueling months on mechanical bulls, admitting it "beat the snot out of me" but was worth it for authenticity. He even sustained injuries during training. The film, set for release on May 23, promises an emotional ride through courage and family bonds.