Indie filmmaker Jeff Baena dies at 47

Michelle Vueges
2 Min Read
Filmmaker Dies

Aubrey Plaza deleted her Instagram account one week after her husband, Jeff Baena, died by suicide at age 47. Baena’s body was found at a Los Angeles home on Friday, January 3 around 10:30 a.m. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Plaza and Baena’s family released a statement saying, “This is an unimaginable tragedy.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time.”

The couple first met in 2011 over a game of Balderdash. They quietly married during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Throughout their relationship, Baena and Plaza collaborated on several projects including “The Little Hours,” “Spin Me Round,” and the anthology series “Cinema Toast.”

Plaza previously discussed working closely with her husband, saying, “I think that when you’re with someone who is in your field, they understand what you’re dealing with on a deeper level.

Jeff Baena and Aubrey Plaza

Obviously, you are able to support each other and really understand the journey that we’re both on.

But, you know, working with your partner can always be challenging. There’s a lot of things we do separately and I think that it’s all about balance.”

Los Angeles County Medical Examiner records have listed Baena’s cause of death as suicide. He was known for directing films like “Life After Beth” and “Horse Girl,” and co-writing “I Heart Huckabees.” His most recent movie was 2022’s “Spin Me Round,” starring Plaza.

Tributes and condolences have poured in from friends and colleagues. Adam Pally expressed his sorrow on Instagram, stating, “My heart breaks for my friend Aubrey and the Baena family.” Selma Blair also offered condolences on Plaza’s recent Instagram post before the account was deactivated. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, texting “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or visiting 988lifeline.org.

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Michelle covers all things entertainment. Find the latest on celebrities, movies, and pop culture.