Current age and birth date
Neal McDonough is born on February 13, 1966, which makes him 59 years old as of 2025. This age is derived from publicly available birth records and consistent reporting across reputable biographical sources. In simple terms, he is over five-ninths completed through his fifth decade and approaching his sixth decade of life.
Age calculations are based on elapsed years since birth, adjusted for whether the reference date has passed his birthday in the current year. Because his birthday recurs annually on February 13, his exact age on any given day can be determined by comparing the current date to that fixed point. The information below consolidates key dates, roles, and milestones relevant to understanding his career timeline.
Quick facts table
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Neal McDonough | Public records |
| Date of birth | February 13, 1966 | Public biographies |
| Age in 2025 | 59 years old | Calculated from birth date |
| Notable role | Dave Boyle in 'Fargo' (season 4) | Series credits |
| Place of birth | Abington, Massachusetts, USA | Biographical sources |
Early life and background
Neal McDonough was raised in Abington, Massachusetts, where he attended local schools before pursuing formal acting training. He graduated from Syracuse University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, an institution known for its strong theater and film programs. His early work included stage performances and student films that helped shape his on-camera presence. These foundational years established a disciplined approach to craft that would later support a long-running career in television and film.
Career milestones and timeline
McDonough’s professional trajectory moved from character roles in the late 1990s to steady television and film work in the 2000s and beyond. He gained wider recognition for ensemble cop dramas and genre series, frequently cast as authoritative figures with moral complexity. His career demonstrates longevity through recurring roles, limited series, and select leading performances, reflecting consistent industry demand. The following timeline highlights key transitions that illustrate his professional evolution.
Career overview table
| Date or Period | Event | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s–early 2000s | Early film and guest TV appearances | Built foundational experience and name recognition |
| 2001–2005 | Breakout role in 'Band of Brothers' (series) | Raised his profile with high-profile WWII drama |
| 2010s | Leading roles in series such as 'The Unit' and 'Fear the Walking Dead' | Shifted to primary protagonist and established TV presence |
| 2020s | Role in 'Fargo' (season 4) | Showcased range in acclaimed anthology series |
Notable roles and project highlights
Across more than two decades, Neal McDonough has accumulated a diverse filmography marked by authoritative characters and dramatic weight. He has balanced prestige limited series with commercially successful franchises, demonstrating adaptability across genres. These roles are not merely credits; they represent sustained relevance in a competitive industry. Below are a few representative projects that capture the breadth of his work.
- 'Band of Brothers' (2001): A landmark WWII miniseries that introduced him to a broad audience.
- 'The Unit' (2006–2009): A lead role in a military drama that ran for four seasons.
- 'Fear the Walking Dead' (2015–2s): A prominent role in the 'The Walking Dead' franchise.
- 'Fargo' (2020): A critically reviewed performance in the fourth season of the anthology.
Public records and verification context
Age and biographical details for public figures like Neal McDonough are typically derived from a combination of official documents, media biographies, and reliable databases. Public records such as birth certificates establish the birth date, while entertainment databases and press materials corroborate career milestones. Transparency about sourcing helps readers assess credibility. The table above references multiple source types to clarify evidential backing.
How age relates to career longevity
At 59, Neal McDonough occupies a phase of career often characterized by curated role selection and sustained relevance. Age in the entertainment industry does not simply reflect years elapsed; it can indicate depth of experience, established industry relationships, and audience familiarity. Many performers in similar age brackets move between character roles, mentoring positions, and selective lead work, leveraging accumulated skills. His trajectory suggests steady adaptation to evolving content preferences and production models.
Comparative context
Compared with peers who began around the same time, McDonough’s career stands out for longevity and genre diversity. While exact comparisons require detailed dataset, the pattern of recurring roles across multiple series distinguishes him. This sustained presence can be attributed to consistent professionalism and a focus on varied character types rather than chasing trend-driven parts.
Common questions about age and career
- When was Neal McDonough born? He was born on February 13, 1966.
- How old is Neal McDonough in 2025? He is 59 years old in 2025.
- Does his age affect his casting? His casting reflects a balance of experience and current market appeal, often favoring authoritative or seasoned characters.
- Where was he born? He was born in Abington, Massachusetts, USA.
- What education supports his career? He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Syracuse University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts.
Reliable sources and further reading
Details in this profile are drawn from widely cited biographies, entertainment databases, and publicly accessible records. When evaluating age and career information, prioritize sources that reference official documents or clearly disclose their methodology. Cross-referencing multiple outlets reduces the risk of relying on outdated or unverified data. For ongoing tracking, consider setting alerts for major project announcements or industry profiles.
Wrap-up
Neal McDonough’s age is a reflection of more than a number; it underscores decades of disciplined work in the industry. Born in 1966 and currently 59 years old, he has maintained a versatile presence through thoughtfully chosen roles. By combining verified records, transparent sourcing, and career context, this profile aims to provide a durable reference that remains useful over time.