Director Jeff Baena, husband of actress Aubrey Plaza, passed away at the age of 47 in his Los Angeles home. His body was discovered by an assistant, and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed his death was by suicide. Emergency services pronounced him dead at the scene on January 3, 2025. Plaza’s representative released a statement asking for privacy during this difficult time, describing the family as devastated.
Baena was known for writing and directing films such as Life After Beth and The Little Hours, often collaborating with Plaza. The couple married in 2020 in a private ceremony and had a close personal and professional relationship. Plaza once spoke about their shared creative projects, describing how their home became a bustling production hub during the making of Cinema Toast.
Born in Miami, Florida, Baena studied film at New York University and pursued a successful Hollywood career. He is survived by his mother, Barbara Stern, his stepfather, and several siblings. Plaza has not yet commented publicly on his passing.
If you or someone you know is struggling, resources such as the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988) and Crisis Text Line (text MHA to 741741) are available for confidential support.
