Interview: Behind ‘The Last Rodeo’ with Neal McDonough and Jon Avnet

In The Last Rodeo, an emotional tale set against the rugged backdrop of bull riding, veteran actor Neal McDonough steps into one of his most personal projects yet—both in front of and behind the camera. Co-written with longtime collaborator Derek Presley and directed by the legendary Jon Avnet, the film is more than just a father-daughter story—it’s a deeply grounded look at identity, redemption, and the quiet courage it takes to hold on. In a heartfelt and often humorous conversation with Awards Buzz’s Sari Cohen, McDonough and Avnet share how their creative bond evolved, what makes this film unlike anything they’ve done before, and how staying true to their personal values shaped every frame.

Check it out!

From stories behind the trickiest scenes to reflections on legacy and collaboration, McDonough and Avnet invite us behind the reins of a film that’s as gritty as it is soulful—and one they both agree has been a career-defining ride.

The Last Rodeo is in theaters now.