Aubrey Plaza is expressing her heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of support she has received following the tragic death of her husband, filmmaker Jeff Baena. The beloved actress, 40, has been left devastated after Baena, 47, died by suicide on January 3.

An Emotional Statement

In an emotional statement released to the public, Plaza said, “This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time.” This poignant message highlights not just her grief but also the importance of kindness during such a difficult period.

The Circumstances of Baena’s Death

Reports indicate that Baena was discovered by an assistant and pronounced dead at the scene, leading authorities to classify the incident as a suicide. The tragic loss has rocked the film community, where Baena was known for his distinctive voice and contribution to cinema.

Jeff Baena’s Career

Born and raised in Miami, Jeff Baena developed a passion for filmmaking early on. He honed his craft at New York University Film School and soon made his way to Hollywood, where he gained invaluable experience working as a production assistant for notable director Robert Zemeckis. His career soared as he collaborated with acclaimed filmmaker David O. Russell on multiple projects, including the 2004 cult classic "I Heart Huckabees," which featured a star-studded cast including Dustin Hoffman and Jude Law.

Directorial Debut and Collaborations

In 2014, Baena made his mark as a director with "Life After Beth," a unique zombie comedy that received praise for its fresh approach to the genre. Plaza, who had been a crucial part of the project from its inception, starred in it, demonstrating her talent both in front of the camera and as a supportive partner behind the scenes. This film was the beginning of many collaborative efforts between the couple, including the 2021 series "Cinema Toast," which not only showcased their artistic synergy but also marked Plaza’s directorial debut.

A Love that Shone Bright

The couple had been together since 2011, always opting for a private relationship away from the public eye, despite their artistic partnerships. Plaza publicly announced their marriage in 2021 through an Instagram post, lovingly referring to Baena as her “darling husband,” a title that resonated deeply with their fans.

The Industry's Response

As the entertainment industry mourns this profound loss, friends and fans alike are coming together to honor Jeff Baena’s legacy and support Aubrey Plaza during this challenging time. With her strength and resilience, Plaza continues to remind us of the importance of love and connection, even in the face of unimaginable tragedy.