Filmmaker Jeff Baena, known for directing acclaimed films like Life After Beth and The Little Hours, and husband to actress Aubrey Plaza, has passed away, TMZ reports. He was 47.
According to law enforcement sources, police and fire officials responded to a Los Angeles-area home on Friday around 10:30 AM for a death investigation. An assistant reportedly discovered Jeff Baena deceased, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed his death was the result of suicide.
Jeff Baena was an acclaimed filmmaker and screenwriter known for his distinct voice and offbeat storytelling in the world of independent cinema. Born on June 29, 1977, in Miami, Florida, Baena developed a passion for filmmaking at a young age and later studied film at New York University. After graduating, he moved to Los Angeles, where he began his career as an assistant to director Robert Zemeckis. This experience introduced him to the intricacies of film production and storytelling.
Baena’s breakout as a writer came with the 2004 dark comedy I Heart Huckabees, which he co-wrote with director David O. Russell. The film showcased his knack for blending humor with existential themes. In 2014, he made his directorial debut with Life After Beth, a unique take on the zombie genre starring Aubrey Plaza and Dane DeHaan. The film garnered critical attention for its innovative approach to blending comedy and horror.
Baena continued to explore unconventional narratives in his subsequent films. Joshy (2016) delved into themes of grief and male camaraderie, while The Little Hours (2017), a medieval comedy inspired by The Decameron, gained praise for its irreverent humor and ensemble cast. His 2020 film Horse Girl, co-written with Plaza, was a psychological drama that showcased his range as a storyteller.
Baena married actress Aubrey Plaza in 2021 after a decade-long relationship. The couple often collaborated creatively, with Plaza starring in several of his films. Known for his understated approach to fame, Baena preferred to let his work speak for itself.
Rest In Peace.