Aubrey Plaza Called in Welfare Check on Husband After 'Concerning Remarks' Months Before His Death

This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.

Aubrey Plaza, known for her roles in "Parks and Recreation" and various indie films, reportedly expressed concern about her husband Jeff Baena months before his tragic death.

According to a report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner, Plaza called a friend to perform a welfare check on Baena after he made what were described as "concerning remarks." At the time, the couple had been separated since September 2024. Baena later admitted he was dealing with "recent marital difficulties" and began therapy.

The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that authorities responded to a call near Baena's residence on January 3. Tragically, Baena was pronounced dead at the scene, and his cause of death was later ruled a suicide.

Plaza reportedly last communicated with Baena via text at 10:36 a.m. ET on the day of his death, according to People magazine. In the days following, Plaza deactivated her Instagram and did not attend the Golden Globes, where she had been scheduled to be a presenter.

Baena, a filmmaker born and raised in Miami, attended New York University's film school before launching his career in Los Angeles. He made his directorial debut with "Life After Beth" in 2014, which starred Plaza, and went on to create notable films such as "The Little Hours," "Joshy," and "Horse Girl."

The couple, who met in 2011, kept their relationship largely private. Plaza confirmed their marriage status publicly in 2021 via an Instagram post, but details about their wedding date remain unclear.

Following Baena's death, his family released a statement through his representative, asking for privacy during this difficult time. "The family is devastated and asks for privacy," the statement read.

Baena's work and legacy as a filmmaker remain celebrated, but his passing serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support.