Neal McDonough Eyes Return as Malcolm Beck in Yellowstone Spinoff

Neal McDonough has established himself as a reliable and intense figure on screen, recognized for his compelling portrayals of complex antagonists. Currently starring in Paramount+’s “Tulsa King,” McDonough speaks about his appreciation for working within the Taylor Sheridan created shows, including his role as Malcolm Beck in “Yellowstone.” His involvement in both series cements his growing connection to this western-influenced dramatic universe. McDonough’s role in “Tulsa King” as Cal Thresher further showcases his ability to inhabit ambitious, power-driven characters.

McDonough revealed in a recent discussion,

“To be so blessed to be in not just one, but two Taylor Sheridan shows… I don’t take that lightly,”

highlighting the significance of his recurring collaboration with the acclaimed creator.

The Contrast Between Malcolm Beck and Cal Thresher

While Malcolm Beck on “Yellowstone” was a ruthless and violent businessman, Cal Thresher in “Tulsa King” represents a different breed of ambition. Thresher is a wealthy oilman who grows tired of merely managing his billions and sets his sights on dominating the cannabis market. His involvement quickly entangles him with other dangerous players in Tulsa’s underworld, but after a series of setbacks, he pivots toward a political path — running for Governor of Oklahoma.

Describing Thresher’s ambitions, McDonough said,

“He just wants to amass as much power as he possibly can to do whatever he feels like doing,”

and added,

“Who has more power in the great state of Oklahoma than the Governor? It’s the next logical step for him, but he’s aware that he’s a bit out of his depth.”

To navigate this new domain, Cal aligns himself with Margaret Devereaux, a horse rancher and the girlfriend of local mob figure Dwight Manfredi. McDonough explained,

“She’s someone Cal needs on his side for the political side of Oklahoma, but also for the mobster side of Oklahoma,”

adding,

“Cal needs her on his team until he gets to the point where he is elected, and then, well, he can do whatever he feels like.”

Inside McDonough’s Experience with the Tulsa King Role

During a Zoom interview with Decider, Neal McDonough described how playing Cal Thresher allows him to explore a new kind of power-hungry character in a world populated by complex alliances. He contrasted his natural introverted personality with the freedom acting provides, stating,

“I can be anything and no one can judge me for it. That fearlessness I think is something Taylor really likes about my acting approach.”

McDonough also praised his collaborations with established actors, especially noting the influence of working with Kevin Costner in “Yellowstone.” He declared,

“Kevin Costner might be the greatest screen actor of all time. He is so dialed in to his characters. When you watch the nuances of his characters, it’s like you’re watching Robert Redford.”

Switching from the volatile Malcolm Beck to the polished Oklahoma billionaire Cal Thresher was a challenge McDonough welcomed, especially acting alongside Sylvester Stallone’s character, Dwight Manfredi. He described Stallone as

“so prepared with this character, with his dialogue, with everything,”

emphasizing the professionalism Stallone brings to the screen.

Exploring Cal Thresher’s Complexity and Misunderstood Nature

McDonough described Cal Thresher as

“one of the most misunderstood characters”

he has played. Initially presented as a tough and cavalier figure wielding immense wealth, Cal’s vulnerabilities and limitations become apparent as the series evolves. McDonough credited his wife, producer Ruvé McDonough, with inspiring the storyline shift toward Cal’s gubernatorial campaign after Season 2.

He shared a behind-the-scenes anecdote:

“David, I want to come back next year, and I want to be the governor of Oklahoma.”

Following this, McDonough was surprised yet pleased to learn that his idea would be incorporated into the show’s new season, giving Cal a fresh arc of political ambition and scheming.

The Motivations Behind Cal’s Political Pursuit

Cal’s run for governor is driven by a mixture of personal ambition and a facade of public service. McDonough explained that there is a genuine desire to

“help out my great state of Oklahoma,”

but his primary motivation is accumulating power to act freely, especially against his rival, Dwight Manfredi. McDonough illustrated this duality, describing moments when Cal pretends to be an affable public figure but reveals a cunning, predatory instinct beneath.

He implied that viewers can expect tension and surprises as Cal’s strategy unfolds throughout the season, promising that it “won’t disappoint.”

The Strategic Alliance Between Cal and Margaret Devereaux

Among the season’s most compelling interactions are scenes between Cal and Margaret Devereaux. Margaret’s proposal to hand over the governor’s office keys in exchange for her ranch is a calculated political and criminal bargain that McDonough believes Cal anticipated and accepted. Cal recognizes Margaret’s indispensable role in navigating Oklahoma’s political and underworld landscapes, making their alliance a pragmatic if uneasy one.

Cal Thresher’s Insecurity and Identity Struggles

McDonough highlighted Cal’s insecurities, especially when confronted by Margaret’s frank observations about his likability. The character feels out of place in the mobster world he has entered, despite his wealth and desire for dominance. McDonough explained that Cal’s venture into the mob business stemmed from boredom with his billionaire lifestyle and his suspicion that it “looked like fun” to be a mobster.

Still, Cal realizes he is in over his head, intensifying his insecurity. McDonough pointed out that this awareness of being out of depth adds layers to Cal’s personality, increasing the character’s complexity and audience intrigue.

Cal and Dwight Manfredi’s Rivalry Through a Lens of Insecurity

The dynamic between Cal and Dwight Manfredi, played by Sylvester Stallone, is fueled by mutual jealousy and intimidation. McDonough said that Dwight is jealous because Cal embodies aspects Dwight lacks, including respectability and financial pedigree. Meanwhile, Cal sometimes envies Dwight’s street-smart brutality. This nuanced rivalry enhances the story’s tension and provides rich material for both actors to explore.

The Signature Role of McDonough’s Expressive Eyes

One distinctive feature often remarked upon in McDonough’s roles is his eyes. Characters like Cal Thresher, Malcolm Beck, and others in his career are noted for their piercing gaze, which the actor credits as a tool that enhances his performances. He describes how his eyes can convey different emotions depending on the character’s nature, chilling blue for villains and softer shades for heroic or kind roles.

Regarding his past roles, McDonough noted,

“If my character is evil, my eyes will be an icy, cold blue. If my character is a good man, my eyes look like light blue, beautiful skies.”

Malcolm Beck’s Potential Return in Upcoming Yellowstone Spinoff

Despite Malcolm Beck’s violent and menacing persona, McDonough expressed strong interest in reprising the role in the forthcoming Yellowstone spinoff. He imagined Beck’s comeback as physically altered—possibly using a cane or bearing visible injuries—but still intent on revenge, particularly targeting Rip Wheeler, played by Cole Hauser, who is a close personal friend of McDonough’s. This reappearance could add a chaotic and intense new threat, enriching the show’s dramatic landscape.

McDonough enthused,

“I loved playing Malcolm. I wish to goodness that there was a way to bring Malcolm Beck back to the new Yellowstone spinoff so that he can wreak havoc.”

McDonough’s Lifelong Connection to Western Culture and Its Influence

Outside of acting, McDonough has a deep passion for cowboy culture and Western themes, which have permeated his career choices. He grew up riding horses weekly at a farm in Cape Cod and still treasures his father’s saddle. The Western genre’s themes and traditions resonated with him throughout his childhood, where Sunday afternoons were often spent watching John Wayne films. “The Cowboys” remains one of his all-time favorite movies.

He and his wife Ruvé have collaborated on Western-themed projects, beginning with “The Warrant,” and continuing through “Yellowstone,” “Tulsa King,” and their own production, “The Last Rodeo.” McDonough shared that his wife once told him,

“You have a face meant for a cowboy hat.”

Upcoming Projects: New Westerns and Writing Ventures

McDonough is currently preparing for new Western films, including

“The Angel and The Bad Man,”

featuring himself, Zachary Levi, and Tommy Lee Jones. Furthermore, he is developing a Western he wrote titled “The Wicked and The Righteous,” slated to begin filming soon. His enthusiasm for the genre is evident, and he finds fulfillment in exploring the nostalgic and heroic aspects embedded in Western stories.

Where to Catch New Episodes of Tulsa King

Fans eager to follow Cal Thresher’s storyline can watch new episodes of “Tulsa King,” which premieres every Sunday on Paramount+. Neal McDonough continues to deliver an intense, multifaceted portrayal, adding layers of tension and drama to the series.