Sober Since 2016, Neal McDonough Finds Strength in Faith and Family

The 59-year-old actor says quitting alcohol helped him rediscover his worth, lean into faith, and become the husband and father he strives to be.

Ruve McDonough and Neal McDonough attend the ‘Homestead’ Premiere in Los Angeles, Calif., on Dec. 10, 2024. Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Angel Studios

Almost a decade later, actor Neal McDonough is getting candid about his road to sobriety and how the lifestyle change is a constant reminder of the blessings he continues to receive from God.

Speaking to Fox News Digital on July 7, the 59-year-old explained how his decision to give up alcohol for good back in 2016, allowed him find self-love once again.

“Years ago, I had a problem with alcohol. I had to stop drinking alcohol to actually fall in love with Neal McDonough again,” he told the outlet.

“I’m not leaning on the crutch that I usually do. This is a lot of extra time with me. I may not like me very much right now, but at some point, I’m gonna figure out how to fall in love with myself again.'”

“That’s what I did when I gave up drinking, I started to actually like me again,” he continued. “And I forgot how blessed I am and all the gifts that God has given me.”

Through self-recognition, the “Yellowstone” star was able to pinpoint his flaws and use his time to improve his overall well-being, while embracing the best version of himself.

“Whatever you do in life, it’s your mental state. What do you want to be? What kind of person do you want to be for Him [God]? What kind of person do you want to be for your wife, for your kids?” he questioned.

“I always kind of pride myself on trying to be the best version, but you can’t. We’re all idiots at times, we’re all sinners. We all do stupid stuff. But it’s forgiving yourself. Once you start to forgive yourself for your flaws, you say, ‘Okay, I’ve got some flaws.’”

‘God and Family First’

McDonough gives credit to his wife of over 20 years, Ruve McDonough, in helping him navigate his sobriety and publicly thanked her in 2017 for reaching the one-year mark. The couple tied the knot in 2003, and together they share five children.

“She helped me through this amazing year of clarity, introspection and Love. Thank You my Love for ALWAYS being there with Your arms wide open,” he wrote on Instagram at the time.

With over 140 credits between television and film combined, the actor has consistently maintained his personal values throughout his career, which include being a devout Catholic and a family man.

In a 2019 interview with Closer Weekly, McDonough discussed his long-standing refusal to film romantic scenes with co-stars outside of his marriage, citing respect for his children.

“I put God and family first, and me second. That’s what I live by. It was hard for a few years,” he told the outlet, adding he faced professional hardship as a result, even losing job opportunities.