Jeff Baena, the esteemed writer and director known for his work on films such as Life After Beth and The Little Hours, has tragically passed away at the age of 47. His body was discovered around 10:30 a.m. January 3, 2025, at a Los Angeles home by an assistant, law enforcement told TMZ. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed that his death was a suicide by hanging.
Baena was married to actress Aubrey Plaza, his frequent creative collaborator, in 2021. The two kept their relationship private with Plaza referring to Baena as her husband in an Instagram post.
“So proud of my darling husband @jeffbaena for dreaming up another film that takes us to italia to cause some more trouble,” the caption read.
“We got married and I’ll tell you how— 1hourmarriage.com,” she told Ellen DeGeneres, as E News reported. “It was our 10-year anniversary. We were in the lockdown, as you know, things got a little crazy, especially in my house.”
The couple had been together for over a decade, and their partnership extended into their professional lives, with Plaza starring in several of Baena’s films. Plaza, known for her roles in Parks and Recreation and The White Lotus, has not yet publicly commented on her husband’s passing.
Throughout his career, Baena was celebrated for his darkly comedic storytelling and unique directorial style. He made his directorial debut with Life After Beth in 2014, a zombie comedy featuring Plaza as a woman who returns from the dead. In 2016, Baena released Joshy, a comedy-drama about a man coping with the aftermath of his fiancée’s death. His 2017 film The Little Hours, a medieval comedy starring Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, and Kate Micucci, was another standout in his career.
Baena’s work was known for its sharp wit and exploration of complex human emotions, often blending humor with poignant themes. His films received critical acclaim and contributed significantly to the independent film scene, where his unique voice and storytelling ability were highly regarded.
In addition to his film work, Baena co-created the Showtime series Cinema Toast in 2021, which featured Aubrey Plaza in a directorial role. This collaboration further highlighted their creative partnership and Baena’s versatility as a filmmaker.
The news of Baena’s death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with colleagues and fans expressing their condolences and admiration for his work. His contributions to film and his unique voice in storytelling will be remembered and missed by many.
As of now, there has been no public statement from Aubrey Plaza regarding her husband’s passing. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Jeff Baena’s legacy as a filmmaker and his impact on the independent film community will continue to be celebrated. His films remain available for viewing, offering audiences a chance to appreciate his talent and vision.
