In a heartfelt conversation on the Good Hang with Amy Poehler podcast, actress Aubrey Plaza shared her emotional journey of coping with the loss of her husband, Jeff Baena, who tragically died by suicide in January. Plaza, known for her role in Parks and Recreation, expressed that navigating life has become a “daily struggle” since the devastating event. Despite the hardships, she conveyed a sense of gratitude for the ability to “move through the world.”
During the podcast, the White Lotus star drew a poignant analogy to her grief, comparing it to the film The Gorge, which features actors Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy. Initially intended as a light-hearted joke, Plaza explained that this comparison accurately reflects her feelings. The film tells the story of two elite snipers stationed in guard towers on opposite sides of a vast, mysterious gorge, tasked with protecting the world from an unseen evil.
Plaza articulated her grief as the chasm that divides these two towers, saying, “At all times, there’s a giant ocean of awfulness, that’s right, like there and I can see it.” She elaborated on her emotional state, describing how she sometimes feels the urge to “dive into it” but also experiences moments where she simply observes the overwhelming sorrow. “Then sometimes I try to get away from it, but it’s always there — and the monster people are trying to get me like Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy,” she shared.
Jeff Baena, who passed away at the age of 47, was a talented screenwriter and director celebrated for his unique contributions to film. His notable works include Life After Beth (2014), Joshy (2016), The Little Hours (2017), Horse Girl (2020), and Spin Me Round (2022). Plaza and Baena were married in 2021, and their bond continues to resonate deeply within her as she navigates this challenging chapter of her life.
As Plaza continues to share her journey, her openness about grief serves as a reminder of the complexities of loss and the importance of seeking support. The candid discussion on the podcast highlights not only her personal struggles but also the broader conversation around mental health and coping with tragedy.
