Jeff Baena, the acclaimed filmmaker known for works such as Life After Beth and The Little Hours, has tragically passed away at the age of 47. He was found deceased in his Los Angeles home on January 3, 2025, with reports indicating that he died by suicide.
Born on June 29, 1977, in Miami, Florida, Baena pursued film studies at New York University before relocating to Los Angeles to advance his career in the entertainment industry. He initially worked as a production assistant for director Robert Zemeckis and later as an assistanteditor for writer-director David O. Russell. During his recovery from an eye injury sustained in a car accident, Baena collaborated with Russell on several scripts, including the 2004 film I Heart Huckabees.
Baena made his directorial debut with Life After Beth in 2014, a zombie comedy featuring his future wife, actress Aubrey Plaza. The couple began their relationship in 2011 and married in 2021, maintaining a private personal life while frequently collaborating professionally. Their joint projects include Joshy (2016), The Little Hours (2017), and the anthology series Cinema Toast (2021).
Baena’s unexpected passing has left the film community and his loved ones in mourning. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, support is available through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
