Actor Neal McDonough prioritizes his faith and family above his acting career, a stance he has maintained throughout his time in Hollywood. Recently appearing alongside Mykelti Williamson at the Movieguide® Awards Gala, McDonough highlighted how his Christian beliefs influence his work and life choices.
McDonough and Williamson Present at Movieguide® Awards
Neal McDonough and Mykelti Williamson joined other stars in presenting the award for Best Movie for Mature Audiences at this year’s Movieguide® Awards Gala. The nominees included BAU: ARTIST AT WAR, THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS, MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE — THE FINAL RECKONING, SARAH’S OIL, and SUPERMAN. The pair previously worked together on THE LAST RODEO, nominated for Best Movie for Families, with Williamson also earning a nomination for the Grace Prize® for Most Inspiring Performance for Movies (Actor).
Unwavering Commitment to Faith and Family
Both actors have been open about how their Christian faith shapes their careers and their commitment to family-friendly projects. McDonough, speaking on Movieguide®’s We Who Dad podcast, expressed his love for acting but emphasized that it remains secondary to his faith and family.
I love acting — I love it to death. It’s the greatest job. It’s the only job I’ve ever had and I love it, but it’s a deep second place compared to family and God,
McDonough shared.
Family first, me second. God first, me second. Those are the tenets we live by.
Challenges in Hollywood Due to Personal Convictions
McDonough has also addressed the professional challenges his strong ethical stance has brought him. In an interview with Fox News, he recounted how his refusal to engage in scenes that contradict his values, such as kissing another woman or using the Lord’s name in vain, led to missed opportunities.
I came out of it on the other side,
he said, reflecting on the obstacles.
I’ve been working so much in the last several years, and I couldn’t be more thankful. I thank God every day for all the blessings I’m given, even during challenging times. Everyone always says, ‘Why do you work so much?’ My response is always, ‘They keep asking me, so I’m not going to stop.’
Increasing Opportunities for Faith-Based Projects
McDonough has praised a growing trend in Hollywood where faith-based films and family-oriented stories receive more support and production. He acknowledged several key figures and companies driving this change.
Whether it’s Angel Studios, whether it’s the amazing Erwin Brothers, whether it’s Dallas Jenkins, whether it’s the Kendricks,
McDonough stated in an interview with Glen Beck.
Whoever it is who’s going out on a limb and telling stories of faith so the whole family can go to a theater.
He added,
Never, ever, ever have I seen before four or five [studios] saying, ‘Oh by the way, if you have something of faith, we’re very interested this year.’ Something’s changed.
Mykelti Williamson’s Support for Inclusive Family Movies
Mykelti Williamson also emphasizes family-oriented entertainment. Discussing his role in the 2019 film RUN THE RACE, Williamson described it as an inclusive family movie that he was passionate about helping bring to audiences.
It’s inclusive and that’s what we need in America right now. We need inclusion. When I read it, I was fired up, and I’m so happy I did it,
he said, adding,
I’m really proud of this movie.
Upcoming Broadcast and Industry Impact
The 33rd Annual Movieguide® Awards will be available for streaming on Great American Family on March 5. The event spotlights the increasing presence and appreciation of faith- and family-based content in entertainment, reflecting a broader cultural shift. Neal McDonough’s example illustrates how personal conviction can shape a successful career without compromising core values, signaling hope for those pursuing principled paths in Hollywood and beyond.
