Miles Teller Says His Late Grandfather Shaped His Role in Eternity

Actor Miles Teller has shared a deeply personal story behind his performance in the new romantic film Eternity. While attending the movie’s New York City premiere, Teller explained how his grandparents — especially his late grandfather — inspired him to play a loving and devoted husband on screen.

In Eternity, Miles Teller plays Larry, a kind and ordinary man who deeply loves his wife Joan, played by Elizabeth Olsen. The story takes place in the afterlife, where Larry must fight for Joan’s love when she reunites with her first love, Luke, played by Callum Turner. The film is emotional but also gentle, showing how love can last even beyond life.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with People, Miles Teller revealed that his role was shaped by real-life experiences. Just before filming began, he was living with his grandparents in California. During that time, he closely watched their relationship and how deeply they cared for one another.

Sadly, Teller’s grandfather passed away a few months later, in December 2024. Looking back, the actor said that watching his grandparents together helped him understand what long-lasting love truly looks like. He described them as a couple who were still very much in love, even after many years of marriage.

Teller explained that seeing their bond made a strong impression on him. He shared that when couples have been together for so long, their connection becomes incredibly deep — so much so that when one is gone, the other often feels a broken heart. This idea stayed with him while playing Larry.

He also spoke lovingly about his wife, Keleigh, whom he married in 2019. Teller said that their promise to stay together forever matched the theme of Eternity. He added that his wife keeps him grounded and brings peace into his life, which helped him connect emotionally with his character.

The film first premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, where Teller previously said the story attracted him because it focused on ordinary love — the kind of love people don’t always notice but is incredibly powerful.

Now playing in theaters, Eternity tells a unique story about love, loss, and choices made after life ends. For Miles Teller, the film is more than just a role. It is a tribute to the great men and loving relationships that shaped who he is today.