Aubrey Plaza discusses her grief following the suicide of her husband, Jeff Baena.
Aubrey Plaza has publicly shared her experiences with grief following the tragic death of her estranged husband, filmmaker Jeff Baena. The disclosure came during a recent episode of “Good Hang,” a podcast hosted by her former “Parks and Recreation” co-star, Amy Poehler. Plaza, 41, described her emotional journey since Baena’s passing, revealing the daily challenges she encounters in managing her grief.
In her heartfelt conversation, Plaza expressed a sense of gratitude for the present moment, acknowledging that she is functioning and appreciates the support she receives during this difficult time. However, she candidly referred to her grief as a “daily struggle.” With a poignant remark likening her bereavement experience to a metaphor from the AppleTV+ film “The Gorge,” she illustrated the overwhelming nature of her sorrow. Plaza explained that her grief feels akin to facing an unending ocean of despair, with the menace of “monster people” akin to those in the film always lurking nearby. She characterized the emotional turbulence of her loss as a constant presence, oscillating between the impulses to confront the grief or flee from it.
Jeff Baena, known for his collaborations with Plaza on films such as “Life After Beth,” “Joshy,” and “The Little Hours,” sadly passed away by suicide on January 3, 2025, at the age of 47. The couple had married in 2021 but had separated in September 2024, just months before his death. This period leading up to Baena’s passing has been marked by profound, unimaginable tragedy. In the aftermath, Plaza and Baena’s family released a joint statement expressing their gratitude for the support received during this trying time.
In a subtle tribute to her late husband, Plaza donned a tie-dyed shirt during her appearance at the 50th anniversary celebration of “Saturday Night Live.” This gesture was particularly poignant, as it symbolized the tie-dyed pajamas the couple had worn on their wedding day. Plaza’s ongoing journey of coping with loss resonates as she navigates her career and personal life amidst the complexities of grief, reminding many of the profound impact of loss and the strength it takes to persist.
As the entertainment community reflects on Baena’s legacy and Plaza’s courageous openness, the discussion surrounding mental health and support systems continues to gain momentum, emphasizing the importance of compassion and understanding in times of tragedy.
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