Jeff Baena, the esteemed filmmaker known for movies like Life After Beth and The Little Hours, has tragically passed away.
Law enforcement confirmed that emergency responders arrived at the scene of a death investigation around 10:30 AM on Friday after an assistant found Baena unresponsive. He was pronounced dead at the location.
Baena, a graduate of New York University’s film program, had an illustrious career that began working alongside renowned directors Robert Zemeckis and David O. Russell. His collaboration with Russell was pivotal, co-writing four screenplays, including the 2004 cult classic I Heart Huckabees, starring Dustin Hoffman and Lily Tomlin.
Baena’s death at the age of 47 has left the film industry mourning a remarkable creative voice. Fans, colleagues, and loved ones alike have expressed deep sorrow. Social media users sent messages of support, with many offering prayers for his wife, Aubrey Plaza, who was deeply affected by the loss. “What horrific news,” one person wrote, while another said, “Prayers with Aubrey Plaza, and all those who knew and loved Baena.” Many fans were stunned by his untimely passing, noting his youth and the impact he made on the industry.
Baena and Plaza’s relationship began in 2014 when he directed Life After Beth, a horror-comedy starring Plaza, John C. Reilly, and Molly Shannon. Their professional relationship blossomed into a personal one, and in 2021, Plaza revealed via Instagram that they had married after nearly a decade of dating. Plaza, known for her role as April Ludgate on Parks and Recreation, has since garnered critical acclaim for her roles in Emily the Criminal and The White Lotus.
Throughout their years together, Plaza often spoke about Baena, especially when discussing projects like Spin Me Round. She fondly recalled how their home became a makeshift post-production facility during the pandemic, with Baena working downstairs while she edited upstairs. In a conversation with People, Plaza reflected on how being forced to stay in one place for such an extended period allowed them to grow closer, despite the global challenges they faced.
In interviews, Plaza also expressed how being with someone in the same field brought a deep level of understanding and support for each other's careers. In reflecting on her relationship during the promotion of The White Lotus, she said, “I’ve been with my husband for 12 years. I relate to being in a relationship that has peaks and valleys, and going through a rough patch and comparing yourself to another couple that seems perfect.”
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