Aubrey Plaza (40) and Jeff Baena (47) had reportedly been separated at the time of his passing earlier this year, according to a report from the Los Angeles medical examiner per USMagazine. News of Baena’s death broke in January after he was found unconscious in his Los Angeles home. The medical examiner’s report states that his body was discovered by his dog walker and that he died by suicide.

Officers report that Jeff Baena’s dog walker arrived at his home on January 3 at her usual time and noticed loud music playing inside, which she found unusual. Using her key to unlock the front door, she entered and discovered his body.

According to authorities, Baena had been separated from Aubrey Plaza since September 2024, when she relocated to New York. Officers noted that Baena had a phone conversation with Plaza the night before he was found dead, as reported by TMZ.

Police spoke with Plaza after his passing, and she confirmed their separation. She also revealed that Baena made concerning remarks in October 2024, which prompted her to ask a friend to conduct a welfare check on him. Plaza stated that Baena had been attending therapy since that incident but had no prior suicide attempts.

The medical examiner confirmed that Baena was pronounced dead at 10:39 AM PT on January 3. Police say Plaza last heard from him earlier that morning at 7:36 AM PT when he sent her a text message. The official report states that no illicit drugs or alcohol were found at the scene or in Baena’s system, and no suicide note was discovered.

Baena, a filmmaker, is survived by Plaza, his parents, and other relatives. He and the actress were together for 14 years, having met in 2011 before marrying in 2021.

The filmmaker’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.

Aubrey Plaza is an American actress, comedian, and producer known for her deadpan humor and versatile performances. Born on June 26, 1984, in Wilmington, Delaware, she began her career in improv and sketch comedy before gaining fame as April Ludgate on Parks and Recreation (2009–2015). Plaza has since built a diverse filmography, starring in comedies like Safety Not Guaranteed (2012) and The To Do List (2013), as well as darker, dramatic roles in Ingrid Goes West (2017) and Emily the Criminal (2022).

Known for her offbeat humor and bold choices, Plaza continues to be a dynamic presence in Hollywood, balancing indie films, mainstream hits, and television projects like The White Lotus (2022).