Aubrey Plaza’s star continues to rise. The actress, known for her breakout role in *Parks and Recreation*, is currently enjoying critical acclaim for her performance in *Emily the Criminal* and a prominent role in HBO’s *The White Lotus*. Her success hasn’t come without personal loss, however.
Her husband, Jeff Baena, was a significant presence in her life and career. Born June 29, 1977, in Miami, Florida, Baena spent his formative years in South Florida before attending New York University. He later established himself in Los Angeles as a successful screenwriter, producer, and director.
Baena’s notable works include the films *The Little Hours* (2017), *Life After Beth* (2014), and *Cinema Toast* (2021). His collaborations extended to Alison Brie, with whom he co-wrote the 2022 film *Spin Me Round*, in which Brie also starred. One of his most significant achievements was co-writing the screenplay for the critically acclaimed 2004 film *I Heart Huckabees*, alongside David O. Russell. This comedy about existential private detectives showcased his talent and helped establish his place in Hollywood.
Plaza and Baena kept their relationship largely private. The public was surprised by Plaza’s May 7, 2021, Instagram announcement of their marriage, subtly revealed alongside a post about Baena’s latest film project.
Tragedy struck the couple in early 2025. Multiple news outlets reported on January 4, 2025, that Jeff Baena had died at the age of 47. Reports cited suicide as the cause of death. As of this writing, Aubrey Plaza has not publicly commented on her husband’s passing.