Aubrey Plaza recently shared her emotional journey through grief after the death of her husband, director Jeff Baena, during an open and heartfelt conversation on Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast. Baena, known for his works like Life After Beth and Spin Me Round, tragically passed away in January 2025 at the age of 47.
In the interview, Plaza described her grief as a “daily struggle,” expressing gratitude for the support she has received, while acknowledging the ongoing pain. She compared her experience to the sci-fi horror film The Gorge, explaining how it felt like being surrounded by an overwhelming and constant sorrow. “At all times, there’s a giant ocean of just awfulness that’s right there, and I can see it,” Plaza shared. “Sometimes, I just want to dive into it and just, like, be in it. And then sometimes I just look at it. And then sometimes I try to get away from it. But it’s always there.”
Despite the immense loss, Plaza mentioned moments of happiness and appreciation for the present, stating that she felt “happy to be with” Poehler during their conversation. She also emphasized the importance of her support system, including close friends who help her navigate through the challenges of grief.
Plaza and Baena had been together since 2011 and married in 2021. Their professional collaboration, with Baena directing several of Plaza’s films, deepened their bond. Even after his passing, Plaza continues to honor his memory through her work and by openly sharing her experiences with the public.
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