On August 19, 2025, Aubrey Plaza sat down with her longtime friend and former Parks and Recreation co-star Amy Poehler on the podcast Good Hang. In a raw and heartfelt conversation, Plaza opened up for the first time about the death of her husband, Jeff Baena, who died by suicide in January 2025 at age 47. This article explores Plaza’s candid reflections on grief, her relationship with Baena, and the ways she’s navigating this profound loss, while offering readers insights into coping with grief and finding support.
The Emotional Weight of Grief: Plaza’s Vulnerability
Aubrey Plaza’s appearance on Good Hang was a poignant moment, as she shared her experience of losing her husband of four years. Known for her sharp wit and sardonic humor, Plaza revealed a softer, more vulnerable side, describing grief as a “daily struggle” that feels like a “giant ocean of awfulness.” Her openness resonated with listeners, offering a glimpse into the complex emotions that accompany such a loss.
A Metaphor for Grief: The Gorge
Plaza drew a powerful analogy between her grief and the 2025 sci-fi horror film The Gorge, starring Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy. She described the film’s setting—a deep chasm filled with monstrous creatures—as a reflection of her emotional landscape. “At all times, there’s like a giant ocean of awfulness that’s right there, and I can see it,” she told Poehler. “Sometimes I just want to dive into it and be in it. And then sometimes I just look at it, and sometimes I try to get away from it.”
Finding Moments of Light Amid Darkness
Despite the weight of her loss, Plaza expressed gratitude for being able to function and move through the world. “Right in this very, very present moment, I feel happy to be with you,” she told Poehler, highlighting the importance of connection in her healing process. Her ability to find joy in small moments underscores the resilience that often emerges in the face of grief.
Who Was Jeff Baena? A Creative Partnership
Jeff Baena was an indie filmmaker known for his work on films like I Heart Huckabees, The Little Hours, and Life After Beth. His creative partnership with Plaza was a cornerstone of their relationship, with Plaza starring in four of his five films. The couple began dating in 2011 and married in 2021, celebrating their union with an impromptu backyard wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Collaborative Love Story
Plaza and Baena’s relationship was deeply intertwined with their artistic endeavors. In a 2017 interview with Marc Maron, Baena described working with Plaza as “amazing,” noting how rare it was to find a creative partner who was both talented and supportive. Their collaboration on Life After Beth (2014), a zombie comedy, marked a significant milestone in their personal and professional lives.
The Shock of Loss
Baena’s death by suicide in January 2025 came as a devastating blow. Plaza and Baena’s family released a statement calling it an “unimaginable tragedy” and requested privacy during their time of mourning. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death, adding a layer of public scrutiny to Plaza’s private grief.
The Power of Friendship: Plaza and Poehler’s Bond
The Good Hang podcast episode was more than an interview; it was a conversation between two friends who have shared a deep connection since their days on Parks and Recreation. Poehler, who played the optimistic Leslie Knope to Plaza’s deadpan April Ludgate, approached the topic with sensitivity, asking, “On behalf of all the people who feel like they know you, and the people who do know you, how are you feeling today?”
A Safe Space for Sharing
Poehler’s warmth created a safe space for Plaza to open up. She noted that Plaza’s dog, Frankie, had become a “therapy dog” during this challenging time. The lighthearted mention of Frankie brought a touch of levity to the conversation, reminding listeners of the small comforts that can anchor us during grief.
Laughing Through the Pain
Later in the episode, Poehler asked Plaza what helps her “stay above the cliff and not in the gorge.” Plaza credited her improv group, Bombardo, and their group chats, Zoom calls, and trips for bringing laughter into her life. “Those girls make me laugh really, really hard,” she said, emphasizing the healing power of friendship.
Coping with Grief: Lessons from Plaza’s Journey
Plaza’s candid discussion offers valuable insights for anyone navigating grief. Her metaphor of The Gorge captures the ever-present nature of loss, while her focus on gratitude and connection highlights strategies for coping. Below are some key takeaways from her experience:
- Acknowledge the Pain: Plaza doesn’t shy away from the “ocean of awfulness” that grief represents. Recognizing and naming emotions can be a crucial step in processing loss.
- Lean on Community: Her reliance on friends and her dog, Frankie, underscores the importance of a support system.
- Find Small Joys: Plaza’s ability to feel “happy in this very moment” with Poehler shows that joy can coexist with sorrow.
- Embrace Creativity: Her continued work on films like Honey Don’t! suggests that creative outlets can provide a sense of purpose during difficult times.
Tools for Managing Grief
Here are some practical tools and resources for those experiencing grief:
- Therapy and Counseling: Speaking with a licensed therapist can provide strategies for coping with loss.
- Support Groups: Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer group support for those grieving.
- Crisis Hotlines: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free, 24/7 support for those in emotional distress.
- Creative Expression: Journaling, art, or music can help process complex emotions.
Comparing Grief Metaphors: Plaza’s The Gorge vs. Traditional Analogies
Plaza’s comparison of grief to The Gorge is unique, but how does it stack up against more traditional metaphors? Below is a comparison:
| Metaphor | Description | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Gorge (Plaza) | Grief as a chasm filled with monsters, always present but navigable. | Vivid, relatable imagery; captures the ongoing nature of grief. | May feel too intense or specific to a sci-fi context for some. |
| Waves of Grief | Grief comes in waves, sometimes overwhelming, sometimes calm. | Universal and easy to understand; reflects the ebb and flow of emotions. | Less vivid for those who prefer concrete imagery. |
| A Heavy Weight | Grief as a burden that feels heavy but can lighten over time. | Simple and relatable; conveys the physical toll of grief. | May oversimplify the complex emotional experience. |
Pros and Cons of Plaza’s Metaphor
Pros:
- Offers a vivid, cinematic image that resonates with modern audiences.
- Captures the persistent presence of grief without suggesting it will “go away.”
- Encourages creative thinking about personal experiences of loss.
Cons:
- May not resonate with those unfamiliar with The Gorge or sci-fi imagery.
- Could feel overly dramatic for some, potentially alienating those who prefer simpler analogies.
The Role of Media in Processing Grief
Plaza’s decision to share her story on a public platform like Good Hang highlights the role of media in destigmatizing grief and mental health struggles. By speaking openly, she joins other celebrities who have used their platforms to discuss loss, such as Carrie Fisher’s candid conversations about mental health or Prince Harry’s reflections on losing Princess Diana.
Why Public Disclosure Matters
Public figures like Plaza can normalize conversations about grief, encouraging others to seek help. Her vulnerability also counters the polished, curated image often expected of celebrities, making her story more relatable. As one X user noted, “Her raw honesty about grief being a ‘daily struggle’ hit me hard. It’s so brave of her to share this.”
Where to Find Support
For those inspired by Plaza’s story to seek help, here are some trusted resources:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate support.
- NAMI Helpline: Reach out at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) for mental health resources.
- GriefShare: A network of support groups for those experiencing loss (griefshare.org).
- Therapy Apps: Platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace offer accessible counseling.
Plaza’s Career: Moving Forward Through Grief
Despite her loss, Plaza continues to thrive professionally. Her latest film, Honey Don’t!, directed by Ethan Coen, premiered on August 22, 2025, and features her as a police officer in a quirky mystery. She’s also starred in Agatha All Along and Megalopolis, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Balancing Work and Healing
Plaza’s return to work reflects a common coping mechanism: finding purpose through productivity. Her role in Honey Don’t! marks her first major project since Baena’s death, symbolizing her resilience. As she told Poehler, “I’m here, and I’m functioning,” suggesting that work provides a structure for navigating grief.
Upcoming Projects
Fans can look forward to Plaza’s role in the animated comedy Animal Friends, set for release in May 2026. Her ability to take on diverse roles—from comedy to drama—demonstrates her strength and dedication to her craft, even in the face of personal tragedy.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Below are real questions from Google about Aubrey Plaza’s podcast appearance, answered concisely:
What did Aubrey Plaza say about her husband’s death on Amy Poehler’s podcast?
Plaza described her grief as a “daily struggle” and likened it to an “ocean of awfulness” from the film The Gorge. She emphasized her gratitude for being able to function and find moments of joy.
Who was Jeff Baena?
Jeff Baena was an indie filmmaker known for I Heart Huckabees and Life After Beth. He was Plaza’s husband and creative partner, collaborating on several films before his death in January 2025.
How is Aubrey Plaza coping with her grief?
Plaza relies on her friends, her dog Frankie, and her work to cope. She finds comfort in her improv group, Bombardo, and continues to take on acting projects like Honey Don’t!.
Where can I listen to Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast?
The Good Hang podcast is available on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Search for “Good Hang with Amy Poehler” to find the episode featuring Aubrey Plaza.
FAQ: Understanding Grief and Finding Support
Q: What are common signs of grief?
A: Grief can manifest as sadness, anger, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating. Physical symptoms like loss of appetite or sleep disturbances are also common.
Q: How can I support someone who is grieving?
A: Listen without judgment, offer practical help (like meals or errands), and check in regularly. Avoid clichés like “they’re in a better place.”
Q: Are there free resources for grief counseling?
A: Yes, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and NAMI Helpline offer free support. Local organizations like GriefShare also provide free or low-cost support groups.
Q: How long does grief last?
A: Grief has no set timeline. For some, it evolves over months; for others, it remains a lifelong process. Professional support can help navigate prolonged grief.
Q: Can creative outlets help with grief?
A: Yes, activities like writing, art, or acting (as Plaza demonstrates) can provide an emotional release and a sense of purpose during grief.
Conclusion: A Universal Story of Resilience
Aubrey Plaza’s conversation with Amy Poehler on Good Hang is more than a celebrity interview; it’s a testament to the universal experience of grief and the strength it takes to keep going. Her metaphor of The Gorge captures the raw, unrelenting nature of loss, while her reliance on friends, work, and small moments of joy offers hope to others. By sharing her story, Plaza invites us to confront our own emotions, seek support, and find light even in the darkest times.
For those inspired by Plaza’s journey, consider exploring resources like the 988 Lifeline or NAMI, or simply reaching out to a trusted friend. Grief may be an ocean, but as Plaza shows, we can learn to navigate its waves—one day at a time.