Actress Aubrey Plaza issued a heartbreaking statement about the death of her husband Jeff Baena, marking her first public comments about the “unimaginable tragedy.”
Plaza and Baena began dating in 2011 were married in 2021.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support,” Plaza said, along with members of the Baena and Stern families, in a joint statement. “Please respect our privacy during this time.”
Baena —who wrote and directed several movies, often featuring Plaza — died Jan. 3 in his Los Angeles home at the age of 47. The County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner said the cause of death was suicide.
Survivors include include his mother, Barbara Stern, and stepfather, Roger Stern; father Scott and stepmother Michele Baena; brother Brad Baena; stepsister Bianca Gabay; and stepbrother Jed Fluxman.
Plaza pulled out of a planned presenting appearance at the Golden Globes following Baena’s death, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
Related Articles
Perry, real-life inspiration for Donkey character in ‘Shrek,’ dies at age 30
Photos: Check out the fashion on display at the Golden Globes red carpet
Prince William expresses sadness at death of his former nanny’s stepson in New Orleans attack
Filmmaker Jeff Baena, Aubrey Plaza’s husband, found dead at Hollywood Hills residence
Movies in 2024: Lessons from a turbulent year at the box office
Tributes to Baena and condolences to Plaza were posted across social media over the weekend.
“My heart breaks for my friend Aubrey and the Baena family and for all of us who spent time on his sets or at his house or in his orbit,”Adam Pally, who starred in Baena’s film “Joshy,” wrote. “Thanks for believing in me Jeff, may your memory be a blessing.”
“The Brutalist” director Brady Corbet mentioned the couple during his acceptance speech at the Golden Globes.
“Finally, tonight my heart is with Aubrey Plaza and Jeff’s family,” he said moments after after winning best director.