Miles Teller opens up about quitting interviews after Esquire controversy

Miles Teller says a past Esquire profile felt 'like a violation' and changed how he handles interviews

Actor Miles Teller has revealed why he largely stepped away from traditional press interviews and media profiles, saying a controversial magazine article from 2015 left him feeling deeply misrepresented.

Speaking during the 2026 Cannes Film Festival while promoting his upcoming film “Paper Tiger,” Teller reflected on the backlash surrounding an Esquire profile that famously described him as “kind of a dick.” The actor said the experience significantly changed how he approaches interviews and publicity.

“That was so mishandled,” Teller told IndieWire. “If I’m not doing this interview on camera, this person can misquote things or put things out of order or say things that didn’t happen. It felt like such a violation of what actually transpired.”

The “Fantastic Four” and “Top Gun: Maverick” star explained that after reading the published piece, he no longer felt comfortable participating in lengthy print profiles because he believed the article did not accurately represent his personality.

Teller also criticized what he sees as the entertainment industry’s focus on controversy and negativity, arguing that negative narratives often receive more public attention online.

“It’s unfortunate that being a good person, that doesn’t sell,” he said.

Despite his past frustrations with the media, Teller attended Cannes to support “Paper Tiger,” director James Gray’s upcoming crime drama starring Teller alongside Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson. The film follows two brothers whose lives spiral into danger after becoming involved with criminals in 1980s America.

Teller added that colleagues and collaborators who work with him directly understand who he truly is beyond media portrayals.