Jeff Baena, the talented director and writer known for his quirky films and equally quirky marriage to Aubrey Plaza, has sadly passed away.
On Saturday morning (January 4), the heartbreaking news was confirmed by People: Jeff, aged 47, died by suicide. It’s a loss that has left Hollywood and fans in shock.
According to law enforcement sources (aka those guys who spill all the tea to TMZ), Jeff’s assistant discovered him at a Los Angeles home around 10:30 am on Friday, January 3. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Jeff and Aubrey, 40, were the kind of couple that didn’t parade their love all over Instagram – probably because their love language was more “let’s make weird and wonderful movies together.” They began dating in 2011, casually decided to make it official in May 2021, and left fans going, “Wait, they’re married?! When did that happen?”
The pair were a dynamic duo in the indie film world, teaming up on projects like Life After Beth and Spin Me Round. Aubrey, with her signature deadpan charm, once admitted in April 2021 that working with Jeff was… well, let’s just say “interesting.” (Translation: probably fun, chaotic, and full of snacks.)
While Jeff may no longer be with us, his legacy as a storyteller, a filmmaker, and the guy who could keep up with Aubrey Plaza’s sharp wit will live on.
To Aubrey and everyone who loved Jeff, we’re sending you all the love, light, and maybe some therapy dogs. Rest in peace, Jeff – may your next project be a blockbuster up there in the great beyond.
