This narrative delves into the sensitive topic of suicide, and for anyone contemplating such actions or knowing someone who is, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988 immediately. Fox News Digital has confirmed the tragic cause of Jeff Baena's demise.
According to the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner, the talented filmmaker and writer took his own life on January 3rd. Baena, who was 47 at the time of his passing, was married to actress Aubrey Plaza.
The Los Angeles Police Department verified that authorities responded to a call near Baena's residence on Friday. Sadly, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene, as informed to Fox News Digital by the LAPD. A comprehensive report from the medical examiner's office will only be available upon the conclusion of the case.
Baena and Plaza kept their relationship private after meeting in 2011. While the exact date of their marriage remains unclear, Plaza confirmed their marital status in 2021 via an Instagram post. "So proud of my darling husband @jeffbaena for dreaming up another film that takes us to Italy to cause some more trouble," the 40-year-old actress had written at that time.
Despite being announced as a presenter, Plaza did not attend the Golden Globes days following Baena's passing. Director Brady Corbet acknowledged Baena's demise during his Golden Globes acceptance speech on Sunday night, where he won Best Director for "The Brutalist." Before concluding his speech, Corbet thanked the award show for giving his film visibility and offered a brief tribute to Baena. "Finally, tonight my heart is with Aubrey Plaza and Jeff's family," Corbet ended poignantly. "Goodnight."
Baena, a native of Miami, attended film school at New York University and embarked on his career in Los Angeles. He made his directorial debut in 2014 with "Life After Beth," which starred Plaza. Baena was renowned for films such as "The Little Hours," "Horse Girl," and "Joshy."
Baena's representative directed Fox News Digital to a statement originally shared with Deadline, which read, "The family is devastated and asks for privacy during this difficult time."
