Jeff Baena, an independent film director known for directing “Life After Beth” and co-writing “I Heart Huckabees,” died Friday, the Los Angeles County coroner announced. He was 47 years old.
Baena was previously married to actor Aubrey Plaza in 2021. The couple co-starred in several films, including 2014’s “Life After Beth,” in which Plaza starred.
The man died by suicide at his home, according to coroner’s records.
According to Deadline, Baena graduated from New York University’s film school and moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career. He worked as a production assistant before moving into the role of editorial assistant. In this role, he was co-written by Baena co-writer David O. I worked with Coach Russell.
In a 2016 interview with Fast Company, Baena said that an accident that left him with an eye injury, specifically a corneal injury, sparked his collaboration with Russell.
According to the newspaper, Russell asked Baena what he thought about the idea the production company had come up with, and the conversation began from there.
“He allowed me to advocate any ideas that contradicted his own,” Baena told Fast Company. “We were on the same wavelength and had the same style and interests. He was truly a soulmate as a co-writer.”
Regarding his writing, Baena said in an interview with ISA Insider that he is drawn to irony and that comedy “tends to have a world built within it.”
“Because for me personally, I feel that comedy exists even in the most serious moments, and that the way people deal with bad things is generally done through comedy,” Baena told the outlet.
Sundance published a tribute to Baena on X, saying, “We sincerely thank Jeff Baena for sharing his story and contributing to the lasting memories we created together.”
Sundance wrote: “Jeff, we will miss your wit, humor and bold vision. Rest in peace my friend.”
“I’m so saddened by the tragic loss of a true artist and kind person,” comedian and podcast host Marc Maron said on X.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or live chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.
Contributed by Colin Sheeley and Rebecca Cohen.
