Neal McDonough: The Man Behind The Mask

You may not know Neal McDonough’s name right away, but his face, especially those piercing blue eyes, is unforgettable. Fans have seen him play both the good guy, like in Band of Brothers and Flags of Our Fathers, and the bad guy, like in Desperate Housewives and Justified. “My wife jokes that I should write a book and call it Just Famous Enough,” Neal laughs to Closer. But don’t be surprised if he actually does write that book someday.

Neal, now 52, is fiercely devoted to his wife, model Ruvé Robertson. In fact, he’s so committed to her that he refuses to do love scenes in his roles. This commitment cost him a part on the short-lived drama Scoundrels back in 2010. “I won’t kiss any other woman because these lips are meant for one woman,” he says of Ruvé, the mother of his five children, who range in age from 4 to 13.

Currently, Neal is playing a 1950s Air Force general in the History series Project Blue Book, who is determined to keep UFO sightings under wraps. Despite the secrecy surrounding his character, Neal was completely open when speaking to Closer.

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Is Your Character in Project Blue Book More Hero or Villain?

It’s not so much about being good or evil. He’s a patriot who’s committed to doing the right thing for his country, no matter the cost. That’s what drives him.

Do You Relate to Your Character?

He believes deeply in the greatness of the U.S., and so do I. My dad came from Ireland, walked into an Army office, and said, “Make me an American,” and they shipped him overseas for five years. That sense of patriotism is deeply rooted in me, so when I play characters like I did in Band of Brothers or Flags of Our Fathers, it feels right and true to me.

What Are Your Thoughts on UFOs?

As a devout Catholic, I believe in certain things. Who are we to say that God might not have plans elsewhere in the universe? To think it’s just us here is kind of narrow-minded. If you believe in spirits, why not believe in extraterrestrials? Who knows what’s out there?

What Lessons Did You Learn from Your Parents?

When my dad returned from the Army, he met my mom and worked at the Ford assembly line. Later, he got into real estate and bought a small hotel on Cape Cod, where I grew up. What he instilled in me was a strong work ethic. If you work hard, great things will come your way.