Aubrey Plaza’s Husband Jeff Baena’s Cause of Death Confirmed: A Closer Look at the Tragic Loss

In a deeply personal and heartbreaking revelation, actress Aubrey Plaza confirmed that her husband, filmmaker Jeff Baena, died by suicide in January 2025. The couple had quietly separated in September 2024, just months before his unexpected death. Baena was 47.

The news stunned fans and colleagues in the film industry. Baena, known for directing and writing films like Life After Beth and Spin Me Round, shared a 13-year relationship and nearly four-year marriage with Plaza. His death marked a tragic end to a deeply creative and often private partnership.

Baena’s passing was confirmed by law enforcement on January 3, 2025. According to the medical examiner’s report, Baena was found unresponsive in his Los Angeles-area home and was pronounced dead at the scene. A rep for Plaza issued a brief statement requesting privacy, calling the event “an unimaginable tragedy.”

What Was Jeff Baena’s Cause of Death?

The official cause of death was suicide, as noted in the medical examiner’s report released in March 2025. The report further revealed that Baena had been struggling with mental health issues and had made “concerning remarks” in October 2024—prompting Aubrey Plaza to request a welfare check through a mutual friend.

Their final communication occurred just hours before Baena was found dead, underscoring the devastating suddenness of the event. Although they had separated a few months earlier, reports noted that the couple maintained contact and had a long history of both personal and professional collaboration.

In August 2025, Plaza spoke publicly about her grief for the first time on Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast. “Sometimes I just want to dive into it and just be in it. Then sometimes I just look at it, and sometimes I try to get away from it. But it’s always there,” she said, describing her emotions as “a giant ocean of awfulness.”

How Did Jeff Baena and Aubrey Plaza’s Relationship Begin?

Plaza and Baena began dating in 2011, maintaining a notoriously private relationship. They tied the knot in secret in 2021, only revealing their marriage when Plaza casually referred to Baena as her “darling husband” in an Instagram post.

Despite their discreet public profile, the couple shared a rich creative bond. Baena directed several films starring Plaza, including The Little Hours and Spin Me Round. They also co-created the Showtime series Cinema Toast, where Plaza made her directorial debut.

The Career and Legacy of Jeff Baena

Born and raised in Miami, Jeff Baena studied film at New York University before relocating to Los Angeles to pursue a career in entertainment. He began as an assistant to prominent directors, including Robert Zemeckis and David O. Russell, the latter of whom he co-wrote I Heart Huckabees with in 2004.

Baena transitioned into directing in 2014 with Life After Beth, a zombie-themed romantic comedy starring Plaza. His distinct blend of dark humor and emotional storytelling earned him critical acclaim. His last major work, Spin Me Round, was released in 2022 and featured an ensemble cast led by Alison Brie and Plaza.

Private Lives, Public Loss

Throughout their time together, Baena and Plaza were known for fiercely guarding their privacy. Rarely seen together in public or on social media, their relationship was built on mutual respect, creative collaboration, and shared values.

In November 2022, Plaza briefly referenced their long-term partnership in an interview with GQ, saying, “I’ve been with my husband for 12 years. I relate to being in a relationship that has peaks and valleys.” This was one of the few times she publicly acknowledged their private bond.

After Baena’s death, Plaza honored him during the SNL50: The Anniversary Special by wearing a tie-dye shirt — a callback to their wedding day attire. It was a quiet but meaningful tribute to a man she once described as her greatest support system.

Grief, Healing, and Moving Forward

Eight months after Baena’s death, Plaza shared that she was “functioning” but still navigating the weight of loss. “I feel really grateful to be moving through the world. I think I’m OK, but it’s like a daily struggle,” she said on the Good Hang podcast.

Her openness has resonated with fans and mental health advocates alike, sparking conversations about grief, depression, and the importance of checking in on loved ones.

Baena’s passing leaves a void in both the independent film community and the lives of those closest to him. He is remembered not just for his creative brilliance but for the quiet strength with which he supported those around him.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, emotional distress, or suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Free and confidential help is available 24/7.

Aubrey Plaza’s husband Jeff Baena cause of death continues to spark public interest as people reflect on the couple’s history and Baena’s impactful career.

For your information:

What was the cause of death for Aubrey Plaza’s husband Jeff Baena?
Jeff Baena died by suicide in January 2025, as confirmed by the medical examiner’s report released in March 2025.

When did Aubrey Plaza and Jeff Baena separate?
The couple quietly separated in September 2024, four months before Baena’s death.

What movies did Jeff Baena direct with Aubrey Plaza?
Baena directed several films starring Plaza, including Life After Beth, Joshy, The Little Hours, and Spin Me Round.

Did Jeff Baena and Aubrey Plaza have children?
No, there is no public record or statement suggesting that the couple had children during their relationship.

How did Aubrey Plaza react to Jeff Baena’s death?
Plaza described her grief as a “giant ocean of awfulness” and acknowledged it remains a daily struggle.

Was Jeff Baena struggling with mental health before his death?
Yes, the medical examiner’s report indicated that Baena had made concerning remarks in the months before his death, and he was known to be facing emotional challenges.