Actress and producer Aubrey Plaza has shared a heartfelt statement following the unexpected death of her husband, filmmaker Jeff Baena. In a joint statement released on Monday by Plaza and the Baena and Stern families, they expressed their shock and sorrow over the tragedy, stating, “This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time.”
Baena, a respected indie filmmaker known for works like Life After Beth and The Little Hours — both of which starred Plaza — passed away on January 3 at the age of 47. According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, his death was ruled a suicide.
The news of Baena’s passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community. Tributes from friends and colleagues, including Alison Brie, Adam Pally, and Molly Shannon, have poured in, honoring the filmmaker. At the Golden Globes, The Brutalist director Brady Corbet also expressed his condolences, dedicating his Best Director award speech to Plaza and Baena’s family.
Messages of support for Plaza have flooded social media, with figures like Selma Blair and Julia Fox offering their condolences. Blair shared her message on Plaza’s recent Instagram post, writing, “No words can touch this painful time. Only love and strength and support from everyone. I am so sorry.