Neal McDonough Calls His Firing a Blessing for His Career
Hey, I’m Riley Carter. Okay, but like why is this a thing?
Neal McDonough says Hollywood did not turn on him after ABC’s Scoundrels fired him for refusing to perform intimate scenes with a co-star and allegedly blacklisting him for two years.
The Yellowstone actor recalls losing houses, roles and his own swagger during that rough stretch, but he and wife Ruvé agree it was the best career pivot they could imagine. They told TMZ on July 31, 2025 that losing everything pushed them toward creating their own production company and strengthening their marriage.
Ruvé expressed gratitude toward Hollywood for the unexpected detour. She explained that the scandalous headlines actually steered them into a fresh chapter – one defined by collaboration, creativity and shared faith. This shift led Neal to get sober, helped Ruvé step into producing roles and encouraged them both to chase long term goals instead of chasing auditions.
Together they have produced shows and films, cultivated a growing production team and guided their five children – 19 year old Morgan, Clover, London, Catherine and James – toward artistic dreams. Their eldest son, Morgan, surprised TMZ on camera with a heartfelt toast praising his parents as ethical role models who prove you do not need to compromise morals to find success.
This family dynamic took a playful turn in their new movie The Last Rodeo, which marks the first time Neal has kissed another actress on film since the Scoundrels fallout. The catch is that his screen partner was none other than Ruvé, his real life wife. They shared an on screen smooch and teased fans that they are more than happy to do that again.
By standing firm on his values, Neal landed a path that led to sobriety, a thriving family life and creative autonomy. Ruvé noted that their public stand probably saved their marriage from the strain that years on set can create. Now the couple hopes their story inspires anyone facing career setbacks, personal struggles or self doubt.
Fans can see the fruits of this journey in both interviews and the work that bears their impressive joint byline. They say that losing a job was a blessing in disguise – one that taught them to trust in faith, each other and their own vision rather than waiting for casting calls.
Anyway, that’s the tea on how a bold no on a network set turned into a firm yes for family, faith and film. Do with it what you will.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
