Molly Shannon pays tribute to Aubrey Plaza’s late husband Jeff Baena

News of Jeff Baena’s death was first reported on Saturday, revealing that the director had passed away He tragically died by suicide at the age of 47. Law enforcement sources confirmed that police and fire officials responded to a death investigation call at approximately 10:30 a.m. Friday after a deputies discovered Baena unresponsive. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Now, just two days after the iconic director was found tragically dead in his Los Angeles home, Molly Shannon is breaking her silence.

Shannon and Baena’s creative partnership blossomed through their work together on several notable films, including “The Little Hours” and “Life After Beth.” Both projects also featured Baena’s wife, actress Aubrey Plaza. Shannon also appeared in Baena’s 2020 film “Horse Girl,” cementing their professional relationship.

The actress took to social media on Saturday and posted a series of heartfelt photos featuring moments shared with Baena. Her comment was simply tagged with a broken heart emoji, a powerful symbol of her grief and the profound loss felt by those who knew him.

Widely respected for his unique storytelling style and ability to bring profoundly human narratives to life, Baena leaves behind a legacy of impactful films and collaborations cherished by fans and colleagues alike.

Jeff Baena made his film debut in 2014 with the horror comedy “Life After Beth,” a film featuring an ensemble cast that included John C. Reilly, Molly Shannon, and Aubrey Plaza herself. The film not only marked the beginning of Baena’s directorial career, but also the beginning of a profound creative and personal partnership with Plaza.

After “Life After Beth,” Baena continued to build his reputation as an innovative storyteller through films like “Joshy,” “The Little Hours” and “Horse Girl.” Each project showcased his signature blend of humour, darkness, and emotional depth, cementing his legacy as a genre-blending filmmaker.

In a previous conversation with the peoplePlaza spoke about the unique experience of working alongside Baena during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It was very hectic making the show because we were in quarantine and Jeff created the show; it was his idea,” she said. “Our house has become a weird post-production facility, and he’s downstairs using Zoom or in his sessions and I’m upstairs editing, (and) we’re going back and forth.”

“We were in quarantine for months and months like everyone else. And we enjoyed it. I think it was, obviously, other than all the catastrophic things that are going on in the world, just on a personal level, a relationship level, kind of things,” she added. It’s nice to be forced to stay in one place for so long, and it could have gone either way, I think.

Plaza also highlighted the benefits of sharing the creative industry with her husband, explaining: “I think when you’re with someone in your field, they understand what you’re dealing with on a deeper level. So obviously you’re capable of that.” To support each other and understand what kind of journey we are on together.”

Following the news, many celebrities and fans took to X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, to share their condolences and pay tribute to the late director.

“We extend our sincere thanks to Jeff Baena for sharing his stories and contributing to the lasting memories we have built together,” the Sundance Film Festival said in a statement. Jeff, we will miss your wit, sense of humor, and bold vision. “Rest in peace, my friend.”

“What terrible news,” one X user said. “Our prayers are with Aubrey Plaza, and all those who knew and loved Bayna.”

Another social media user expressed: “Horrible. Sending my condolences.”

Another wrote: “Prayers for him and his family.”

Aubrey Plaza has not yet commented publicly on her husband’s death.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please contact the crisis hotline in your area. Call Suicide and Crisis Lifeline on 988 for free and confidential support, 24/7.