Aubrey Plaza revealed the profound impact of her husband Jeff Baena’s suicide. She’s best known for her work on the hit series “Parks and Recreation” and most recently HBO’s “The White Lotus.” Baena, a celebrated director and writer, unfortunately died by suicide in January at 47 years old. He died on May 20 at his home in Los Angeles. Plaza discussed the challenges she faces in the wake of this unimaginable tragedy during a heartfelt conversation with Amy Poehler on her podcast, “Good Hang.”
The couple originally met back in 2011, marrying a decade later in 2021. Their artistic partnership continued through a handful of features, including the comic-horrors Life After Beth and The Little Hours, both helmed by Baena. His last film, the darkly comedic “Spin Me Round,” starred Plaza with Alison Brie. Many other critics have labeled Baena’s imaginative productions “twisted” but “enjoyable,” as noted by Observer film critic Ryan Gilbey.
In her interview with Poehler, Plaza acknowledged that it’s been a “terrible, terrible, horrible year.” She expressed that while she is “OK, but it’s like a daily struggle, obviously.” These honest comments paint a picture of her current struggle with grief and what she describes as the overwhelming emotional impact that grief has had on her life.
Plaza has given amazing performances in “Ingrid Goes West” and “Emily the Criminal.” These roles demonstrate not only her great talent, but her important diversity and range as an actress. She’s lined up to star next in Ethan Coen’s comedy Honey Don’t. Though she dives headfirst into her work duties, the ghost of her husband’s death still hangs over her.
In discussing her current state of mind, Plaza shared a poignant moment:
“Right in this very, very present moment, I feel happy to be with you.” – Aubrey Plaza
This remark highlights her struggle and quest to create space for joy within grief. She went on to describe her emotional world, comparing it to a never-ending battle.
“It’s like an alien movie with Miles Teller… At all times there’s like a giant ocean of awfulness that’s like right there, and I can see it. And sometimes, I just want to dive into it and be in it. And then sometimes, I just look at it. And then sometimes, I’m just trying to get away from it. But it’s always there. It’s just always there.” – Aubrey Plaza
When Plaza eventually passed away, a joint statement was made by Plaza and Baena’s family. Hearing the news, they said their loss is “an unimaginable tragedy.” This humble description tells us the depth of Plaza’s loss. It most importantly rings true for everyone who worked alongside Baena throughout his esteemed career.
As Plaza continues to process her loss, she is working diligently within her art form. She tells her story to provide a view into her struggles at home and at work.