The cause of death and tidbit surrounding the tragic death of the 'Life After Beth' director who married Aubrey Plaza have surfaced, just hours after news of his passing broke out.
- January 5, 2025
AceShowbiz - Jeff Baena, the indie filmmaker married to actress Aubrey Plaza, passed away on January 3, 2025 at the age of 47. The cause of death has been confirmed as suicide as details surrounding his shocking death emerged.
According to a report by the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner, the director took his life by hanging. The filmmaker, known for films such as "Life After Beth" and "The Little Hours," was found at his residence in the city.
Baena's tragic death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. While his wife Plaza hasn't issued any statement, the Sundance Film Festival has extended their heartfelt condolences, remembering his "wit, humor, and daring vision." Many tributes also poured in from friends and colleagues, including Marc Maron, who expressed sadness at the loss of a "true artist and sweet guy."
Born in 1977, Baena graduated from NYU Film School and moved to Los Angeles to pursue his career. He worked as a production assistant for Robert Zemeckis and an assistant editor for David O. Russell before creating and executive producing the Showtime series "Cinema Toast."
Baena's filmography includes "Joshy," "Horse Girl," and "Spin Me Round." He co-wrote the acclaimed 2004 film "I Heart Huckabees," starring Jason Schwartzman, Jude Law, and Naomi Watts. He made his directorial debut with the zombie comedy "Life After Beth" in 2014, which featured his wife, Aubrey Plaza.
Baena met Plaza in 2011, and they kept their relationship private for years. They tied the knot in May 2021, which was revealed when Plaza referred to Baena as her "darling husband" in an Instagram post.
Days before his tragic death, Aubrey Plaza was seen attending NFL game and sitting courtside with comedian Jerrod Carmichael and sharing laugh together. The actress was scheduled to present an award at the upcoming Golden Globes on Sunday, January 5. In the aftermath of her husband's passing, it's unknown if she will take the stage as scheduled.
Baena is survived by his mother, stepfather, father, stepmother, brother, stepsister, and stepbrother.
