Actor Neal McDonough
Trained ‘Butt Off’ For New Rodeo Film
… Rode Mechanical Bull, Pumped Iron!!!
Published May 19, 2025 12:30 AM PDT
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Neal McDonough’s Dedication to Fitness
Actor Neal McDonough is approaching his 60th birthday, yet he recently accepted one of the most physically demanding roles of his career. He expressed that he worked tirelessly to achieve peak physical shape for his new project.
About ‘The Last Rodeo’
The film titled “The Last Rodeo,” slated for release on May 23, features McDonough as a retired rodeo champion who must return to the bull-riding arena to provide for his family when times get tough.
Insights from the Director
In a recent interview, the film’s director, Jon Avnet, shared insights about the rigorous preparation both he and McDonough undertook. He highlighted McDonough’s commitment to transforming into an authentic bull rider.
Training for Authenticity
McDonough revealed, “I worked really hard to ensure I was in peak performance physically. We trained on horses and mechanical bulls, and I pushed myself to look like a genuine rodeo cowboy.” His commitment included intensive physical workouts and mastering bull-riding techniques.
Challenging Scenes Ahead
A particularly challenging sequence features McDonough going shirtless, leaving no room for camouflage. He remarked, “This moment in the film was special for me because I dedicated so much time sculpting my body to resemble a real bull rider, and I believe it paid off.”
Safety First
<pDespite his determination to dive into the role, McDonough wisely decided to leave bull riding to the professionals. This strategic decision stemmed from the need to prioritize safety and ensure the film's production schedule remained intact.
Mechanical Bulls and More
“For the majority of my training, I was on mechanical bulls. Due to insurance constraints, they didn’t let me ride real bulls,” McDonough explained, underscoring his intention to keep safe while still putting in a commendable effort.
Director’s Perspective
Avnet commented on the challenges of directing actors who are eager to perform their own stunts: “It’s part of the experience of guiding leading men. They all have the desire to take risks, and you must balance protecting them while also safeguarding the film from any setbacks.” He further added, “This guy is remarkably fearless!”
A Grueling Journey
McDonough shared that despite avoiding bull riding, he still faced plenty of tough moments during training. “I definitely endured my fair share of discomfort,” he admitted, but ultimately, he felt every effort was worthwhile for both the film and his personal fulfillment.
A Rewarding Experience
Reflecting on the entire process, McDonough stated, “This was truly the time of my life!” His passion and dedication to the craft undoubtedly shine through in this exciting new venture, making “The Last Rodeo” a film not to be missed.
