In a heartbreaking revelation, Aubrey Plaza reached out to a friend for a welfare check on her husband, acclaimed writer and director Jeff Baena, just months before his tragic death by suicide at the age of 47. Reports from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner indicate that Baena had expressed "concerning remarks" to Plaza in October 2024, sparking worries about his well-being.

Plaza and Baena, who had been married since 2021 after a decade of dating, were reportedly facing marital difficulties, which resulted in a four-month separation starting in September 2024. Despite their challenges, they maintained open communication, with Baena sending a text to Plaza on January 3, mere hours before his passing. He was found deceased at their Los Angeles home by his dog walker.

Reflecting on their relationship in a 2019 interview with People, Plaza shared, “One of the great things about our careers is that we are forced to be independent, take little breaks, go off and do our things and come back. It’s kind of fun.” It’s clear that their journey together was a blend of love, creativity, and mutual respect, even during difficult times.

Since Baena's death, Plaza has made few public appearances, opting to skip the Golden Globe Awards shortly after the tragedy to mourn privately. During the ceremony, notable director Brady Corbet paid tribute to Baena, stating, "Tonight my heart is with Aubrey Plaza and Jeff’s family."

In a touching homage to her late husband, Plaza appeared on Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary special in February, donning a tie-dye shirt—a poignant nod to a hobby Baena embraced during the pandemic. The couple had famously worn tie-dye attire during their spontaneous wedding ceremony, a testament to their playful spirit and shared memories. Plaza mentioned on The Drew Barrymore Show that Baena had taken to tie-dyeing as a pastime during quarantine, leading to their matching pajamas for their special day.

In the wake of Baena's untimely death, a statement was released on behalf of Plaza and both Baena and Stern families, which read, “This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time.”

As the news of this devastating loss reverberates through Hollywood and beyond, fans and friends alike are mourning the profound impact Baena had on both the film industry and those who knew him. The couple’s love story serves as a reminder of the complex nature of relationships and mental health, shedding light on the importance of support and communication in times of crisis.