Premiering in theaters on September 25, 2025, “Eleanor the Great” is a poignant and unconventional comedy-drama that centers on Eleanor Morgenstein, a sharp-witted and defiantly troublesome 94-year-old woman. Following a devastating personal loss that would leave most people reeling, Eleanor instead decides to embark on a remarkable adventure, spinning a tale that quickly spirals far beyond her control. The film promises to be a celebration of resilience at any age, challenging societal expectations of the elderly and proving that the desire for adventure, recklessness, and meaning never fades.

The movie positions its nonagenarian heroine not as a fragile figure to be pitied, but as the fierce, capable, and chaotic driving force of her own narrative. As Eleanor’s story takes on a dangerous life of its own, she drags a cast of skeptical family members, weary caregivers, and unsuspecting acquaintances into its wake. This journey becomes more than just a personal escapade; it is a catalyst for uncovering long-buried secrets, mending fractured relationships, and demonstrating that the greatest stories often come from the most unexpected protagonists.

Eleanor the Great cast and crew 2025

1: June Squibb as Eleanor Morgenstein

June Squibb is a legendary American actress whose career has been a testament to perseverance and talent, culminating in widespread recognition later in life. Born on November 6, 1929, in Vandalia, Illinois, she worked extensively in theatre and television for decades before becoming a household name. Her breakthrough came at the age of 84 when she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her scene-stealing performance as Kate Grant in Alexander Payne’s Nebraska (2013). Prior to that, she had memorable roles in films like About Schmidt (2002) and on television in shows such as The Bill Engvall Show.

In “Eleanor the Great,” Squibb takes on the titular role of Eleanor Morgenstein, a witty and troublesome 94-year-old woman who embarks on a dangerous adventure after a devastating loss. This role is a rare and wonderful opportunity to see a nonagenarian protagonist lead a feature film, and Squibb’s impeccable comedic timing and ability to convey profound depth beneath a stubborn exterior make her the perfect actress to bring Eleanor’s vibrant, unyielding spirit to life. Her casting promises a performance full of heart, humor, and resilience.

2: Erin Kellyman as Nina

Erin Kellyman is a rising British actress who has quickly made a name for herself in major franchises with her intense and compelling performances. Born in 1998 in Tamworth, England, she first gained significant attention as Enfys Nest, the fierce leader of the Cloud-Riders, in Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018). Kellyman further showcased her range as the conflicted elf Karli Morgenthau in the Marvel series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021) and as the rebellious street urchin Jade in the fantasy series Willow (2022). Her ability to portray passionate, morally complex characters has become her signature.

As Nina, Kellyman likely plays a pivotal role in Eleanor’s journey, possibly a caregiver, a skeptical relative, or an unexpected ally who gets drawn into the dangerous tale Eleanor weaves. Her presence bridges the generational gap in the film and brings a youthful energy that will contrast with and complement Squibb’s character. Kellyman’s talent for portraying determined and passionate individuals suggests that Nina will be far more than a secondary character; she will be an active participant in the unfolding adventure.

3: Chiwetel Ejiofor as Roger

Chiwetel Ejiofor is an Academy Award-nominated English actor of Nigerian descent, renowned for his powerful, charismatic, and emotionally resonant performances. Born on July 10, 1977, in London, he gained international acclaim for his starring role in 12 Years a Slave (2013), which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor. His distinguished filmography includes Kinky Boots (2005), Children of Men (2006), Doctor Strange (2016) and its sequels, and the acclaimed television series The Man Who Fell to Earth (2022). Ejiofor is known for his intellectual approach to roles and his commanding screen presence.

In “Eleanor the Great,” Ejiofor takes on the role of Roger. Given the actor’s caliber, Roger is likely a character of some significance—perhaps a doctor, a lawyer, a long-lost relative, or a figure from Eleanor’s past who holds a key to the dangerous tale she is telling. Ejiofor’s ability to project both warmth and authority will add substantial gravity to the film, and his interactions with June Squibb’s Eleanor are sure to be a highlight, creating a dynamic between two formidable acting talents.

4: Jessica Hecht as Lisa

Jessica Hecht is a celebrated American actress with an esteemed career spanning theatre, film, and television. Born on June 28, 1965, in Princeton, New Jersey, she is widely recognized for her role as Susan Bunch, Carol’s partner and Ross’s ex-wife’s best friend, on the iconic sitcom Friends. However, her true home has been the stage, where she has been a Tony Award nominee for her performances in A View from the Bridge (2010) and The Price (2017). Her television work also includes significant roles in Breaking Bad as Gretchen Schwartz and in The Boys.

Hecht brings her signature blend of intelligence, warmth, and subtle complexity to the role of Lisa. The character is likely a family member or a close friend of Eleanor’s, possibly serving as a voice of reason or a source of tension as Eleanor’s tale spirals into danger. Hecht’s extensive experience in character-driven drama makes her ideally suited to portray the nuanced relationships and emotional undercurrents that will be central to the film’s narrative.

5: Rita Zohar as Bessie

Rita Zohar is an actress known for her work in both Israeli and American cinema. Her career includes roles in a variety of films, and she often brings a strong, grounded presence to her characters. With a career that may not be as widely documented in mainstream media, her casting suggests a performer chosen for her authentic qualities and ability to embody a specific character type with sincerity and depth.

As Bessie, Zohar is likely portraying a peer and friend of Eleanor’s, someone who shares her history and understands her world. This character could be a confidante, a partner-in-crime, or a foil to Eleanor’s “troublesome” nature. The inclusion of a character like Bessie is crucial for building the community around Eleanor, showing that she is not an island but part of a generation with its own shared experiences and secrets.

6: Will Price as Max

Will Price is an actor whose career includes roles in independent film and television. He has been building a portfolio of work that demonstrates his versatility and commitment to his craft. Actors like Price often form the essential backbone of a film’s cast, providing strong, believable support that helps to anchor the story in reality.

In the role of Max, Price could be playing a younger family member, such as a grandson or a nephew, or perhaps a social worker or community organizer who interacts with Eleanor. His character likely represents the younger generation’s perspective on Eleanor’s actions, potentially serving as a bridge between her world and the modern one. This dynamic will be key in exploring the film’s themes of legacy, memory, and family across generations.

7: Lauren Klein as Vera

Lauren Klein is an experienced actress with a long history in television, particularly known for her roles in daytime and prime-time dramas. Her career reflects a dedication to the craft of acting, with numerous appearances that showcase her ability to create memorable characters even with limited screen time. She brings a wealth of experience and professionalism to any production.

Playing Vera, Klein is almost certainly another friend or acquaintance from Eleanor’s social circle. The name Vera suggests a character with a certain warmth and perhaps a more cautious or traditional outlook compared to the rebellious Eleanor. Her interactions will help to flesh out Eleanor’s personality by showing how she is perceived by her peers, adding layers of social context to the main character’s journey.

8: Stephen Singer as Rabbi Cohen

Stephen Singer is a veteran character actor with an extensive list of credits in film and television, often appearing in roles that require a sense of authority, warmth, or bureaucratic officiousness. He has appeared in numerous acclaimed projects, including The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Sopranos, and is skilled at making a quick but lasting impression.

As Rabbi Cohen, Singer’s character is positioned as a figure of community and counsel. The Rabbi could be a source of comfort for Eleanor after her loss, or he could become an unwitting participant in the “dangerous tale” she sets in motion. This role connects the narrative to themes of faith, tradition, and the search for meaning in the face of grief, providing a spiritual dimension to the story.

9: Beth Goodrich as Broadway Class Singer

Beth Goodrich is an actress and singer with a background in musical theatre. Her specific credit as a “Broadway Class Singer” in this film strongly indicates a scene that involves a musical or performative element, perhaps a community class or a flashback sequence. This detail adds an intriguing layer to the film’s plot, suggesting that Eleanor’s “tale” may involve her past aspirations or a connection to the world of performance.

Goodrich’s role, while likely specific, points to the film’s potential use of music or memory as a narrative device. The inclusion of a Broadway-class setting could be a key to understanding Eleanor’s character—revealing a hidden talent, a past life, or an unfulfilled dream that fuels her present-day adventure.

10: Elaine Bromka as April

Elaine Bromka is an accomplished American actress known for her work on stage, screen, and television. She has a prolific career with roles in films like Uncle Buck (1989) and TV series like The Sopranos and Succession. Bromka is also a respected acting teacher, bringing a deep understanding of character development to her performances.

In the role of April, Bromka likely plays another contemporary of Eleanor’s. Her character’s name suggests a certain vibrancy, and she could be a more upbeat or optimistic friend, providing a different emotional color to the group dynamic. Bromka’s experience ensures that even a supporting role will be imbued with specificity and truth.

11: Raymond Anthony Thomas as Professor Thompson

Raymond Anthony Thomas is a seasoned actor with a strong presence in theatre, film, and television. He has appeared in a wide range of projects, from the legal drama The Good Fight to the superhero series Luke Cage. Thomas often brings a dignified and thoughtful energy to his roles, making him well-suited for characters of authority and intelligence.

Playing Professor Thompson, Thomas’s character introduces an academic element to the story. The Professor could be someone from Eleanor’s distant past, an expert consulted about her tall tale, or a figure whose research becomes entangled with her narrative. This role suggests that Eleanor’s story may have historical or intellectual dimensions that extend beyond her personal experience.