Writer and Director Jeff Baena Dies by Suicide at 47
Jeff Baena, renowned writer and director, has died at 47, PEOPLE reported. He was married to actress Aubrey Plaza. According to law enforcement sources, an assistant found Baena's body in a home near Los Angeles. This discovery took place around 10:30 a.m. on Friday, January 3. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the scene, and authorities confirmed it was a suicide. There was no immediate comment from Baena's representatives.
Baena and Plaza collaborated on various projects, notably "Life After Beth" (2014) and "Spin Me Round" (2022).
Baena was born and raised in Miami. He later attended film school at New York University. After graduating, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue an entertainment career. He accumulated over a dozen directing credits during his career.
Among his notable works, Baena co-wrote the 2004 film "I Heart Huckabees." This movie featured actors like Jason Schwartzman, Jude Law, and Naomi Watts. Shortly thereafter, he made his directorial debut with "Life After Beth," which starred Plaza.
His later project, "Cinema Toast." aired on Showtime in 2021. This anthology series also allowed Plaza to make her directorial debut.
Baena and Plaza began dating in 2011. They chose to keep their relationship very private. For years, they never confirmed their engagement or marital status.
In May 2021, Plaza revealed they had married when she referred to Baena as her "darling husband" in an Instagram post. Her caption celebrated his work on a film, describing it as a project that takes them to Italy for more escapades. According to a representative, the couple had indeed tied the knot.
Baena's contributions to film and his collaborations with Plaza reflect his impactful career. His work will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
Earlier, SSP wrote that Vanessa Williams remembered her mother Helen following her passing.