Actor Neal McDonough talks faith after filming new movie
When Neal McDonough was initially approached to portray the devil in an upcoming film, he declined the offer.
“I can’t portray Lucifer,” the 57-year-old performer, a Catholic, recalled stating. “That’s simply too grim.”
McDonough, recognized for his performances in films ranging from “Minority Report” to “Captain America: The First Avenger” and television series from “Boomtown” to “Yellowstone,” has previously taken on antagonist roles. However, he noted that this time, the devil caused him to hesitate.
His spouse, Ruvé, swayed his decision. After they sought guidance through prayer, she urged him to accept the role, asserting that he was the finest choice for the position as a skillful big-screen antagonist and as someone who possesses one of the strongest connections with God in Hollywood.
That’s how McDonough earned the title of “The Benefactor” in “The Shift,” a contemporary adaptation of the Book of Job that debuted in cinemas in December and is available for streaming online. The movie produced by Angel Studios centers on the main character Kevin Garner (Kristoffer Polaha) as he looks for his spouse and clings to his hope and faith despite an unusual opponent — the Benefactor — who thrusts him into a different dystopian existence.
https://youtu.be/fozskMtdwI8?si=RIE6bjGbC8k3Iae
After the shooting, McDonough conversed with Our Sunday Visitor regarding his excitement for his new role and its influence on his faith, his dedication to acting, his unwillingness to participate in intimate scenes, and his devotion to God and family.
“My belief is paramount,” he stated. “God is primary, I am secondary. Family is foremost, I am secondary. These are the principles we uphold in our home.”