Molly Shannon pays tribute to Aubrey Plaza's late husband, Jeff Baen

News of Jeff Beene's passing was first reported on Saturday, revealing that the filmmaker had tragically died by suicide at the age of 47. Law enforcement sources confirmed that police and firefighters responded to a death investigation call around 10:30 a.m. Friday after an aide found Baena unresponsive. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Now, just two days after the acclaimed director was tragically found dead in his Los Angeles home, Molly Shannon is breaking her silence.

Shannon and Baen's creative partnership blossomed as they worked together on several notable films, including The Small Hours and Life After Beth. Baen's wife, an actress, also participated in both projects Aubrey Square. Shannon also appeared in Baen's 2020 film Horse Girl, further cementing their professional bond.

The actress took to social media on Saturday, posting a series of heartfelt photos of moments shared with Baen. Her caption featured a simple broken heart emoji, a powerful symbol of her grief and the deep loss felt by those who knew her.

Widely respected for her unique storytelling style and ability to bring deeply human narratives to life, Baena leaves behind a legacy of influential films and collaborations beloved by fans and colleagues alike.

Jeff Baena made his directorial debut in 2014 with the horror-comedy Life After Beth, starring John C. Reilly, Molly Shannon and Aubrey Plaza herself. The film not only marked the beginning of Baen's directorial career, but also the beginning of a creative and deeply personal partnership with Plaza.

After “Life After Beth,” Baena continued to build her reputation as an innovative storyteller with films such as “Joshy,” “The Little Hours” and “Horse Girl.” Each project showcased his signature blend of humor, darkness and emotional depth, further cementing his legacy as a genre-blending filmmaker.

In a previous conversation with PeoplePlaza reflected on the unique experience of working with Baen during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It was very hectic while we were doing the show because we were in quarantine and Jeff was doing the show; it was his idea,” she said. “Our house became this weird post-production facility, and he's downstairs in his zoom or sessions and I'm upstairs editing, (and) we're just going back and forth.”

She added: “We were in quarantine for months and months, like everybody else. And we enjoyed it. I think it was obviously different than all the catastrophic things that are going on in the world, just on a personal level, on a relationship level, kind of I think it's nice to be forced to be in one place for so long.

Plaza also emphasized the benefits of sharing a creative industry with her husband, explaining: “I think when you're with someone who's in your field, they understand what you're dealing with on a deeper level. So obviously you're able to support each other and really understand both of our journeys.”

Following the news, many celebrities and fans took to the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to express their condolences and pay tribute to the late director.

The Sundance Film Festival said in a statement: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jeff Bain for sharing our stories and contributing to the lasting memories we have created together. Jeff, we will miss your wit, humor and bold vision. Rest in peace my friend.”

“What appalling news,” said one X user. “Prayers with Aubrey Plaza and all those who knew and loved Baen.”

“Terrible. My condolences,” said another social media user.

Another wrote: “Prayers to her and his family.”

Aubrey Plaza has yet to publicly comment on her husband's death.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please contact a crisis line in your area. Contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline on 988 for free and confidential support 24/7.