Aubrey Plaza's Heartfelt Reflection on Grief

Actress Aubrey Plaza has bravely shared her struggles with grief in the wake of her estranged husband, filmmaker Jeff Baena's, tragic suicide seven months ago. Baena, who was only 47, passed away in January, leaving behind a profound impact on those who knew him.

Life After Loss: Plaza's Emotional Journey

In a candid conversation on her former *Parks and Recreation* co-star Amy Poehler's podcast, Plaza opened up about her emotional state. When asked how she was doing, she responded, "I think I’m OK," adding, "Grief feels like a giant ocean of awfulness." This powerful imagery encapsulated her ongoing battle with loss.

Plaza expressed that sometimes she feels like diving into this ocean of emotions, while at other moments, she desperately tries to swim away from it. But the reality is, that grief is always looming.

A Love Story Cut Short

Married in 2021, Plaza and Baena’s relationship was born from their collaborations on films such as the horror *Life After Beth* and the comedy *The Little Hours*. Their love story took a tragic turn when they separated in September 2024, mere months before Baena's passing.

Finding Light Amidst Darkness

Despite her heavy heart, the 41-year-old actress shared moments of gratitude. "Right in this very, very present moment, I feel happy to be with you," she told Poehler, highlighting how, while life can be a struggle, she’s still finding joy in the world around her.

Grief as a Landscape: A Unique Analogy

As Plaza discussed her grief, she drew a unique parallel to her upcoming film *The Gorge*, which features two snipers guarding opposite sides of a vast chasm. "Watching that movie, I felt like that gorge represented my grief. It’s always there, filled with monstrous emotions threatening to engulf me," she explained.

Remembering Jeff Baena's Talent

Jeff Baena was celebrated for his writing and directing work, including the acclaimed *I Heart Huckabees* and *Horse Girl*. His innovative storytelling has left a lasting mark on indie cinema.

Reach Out for Support

For those grappling with grief or mental health challenges, there are resources available. Don't hesitate to seek help and support during difficult times.

Today, Aubrey Plaza continues to shine in her career, with roles in productions like *The White Lotus* and the upcoming *Honey Don't!*, showcasing her resilience and strength.