I guess my first exposure to Neal McDonough would have been Star Trek: First Contact. Won't say I was bowled over or impressed by him specifically. Hello, Ensign Redshirt.

...but then I accidentally started watching Boomtown. First off the show bowled me over. Secondly Neal McDonough rocked my world. His role as David McNorris was a central figure in the ensemble cast, and his story line was plotted amazingly well.

His trouble marriage, hard drinking, "secret" affair, and political ambitions always came at odds with each other...but never stopped the charisma from oozing. He portrayed the complex character with zest. Over the top when necessary, and under the radar when he needed to be. He knew when the show was about him. He knew when the show was not. He took his star turns and supporting roles to the maximum effect.

I gave Medical Investigation a shot, but despite his talent, it was not for me. I'm desperately waiting for his return to television. He's a powerful actor with so much to give. He should be a bigger star than he is.