Molly Shannon pays tribute to Aubrey Plaza’s late wife Jeff Baena

News of Jeff Boehne’s death first broke on Saturday, revealing that the director had passed away tragically ended his life by suicide at the age of 47. Law enforcement sources confirmed that police and fire officials responded to a call about a death investigation around 10:30 a.m. Friday after a deputy found Baena unresponsive. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

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

Shannon and Baen’s creative partnership flourished with their work together on several notable films, including The Small Hours and Life After Beth. Baena’s wife, an actress, also participated in both projects Aubrey Plaza. Shannon also appeared in Baena’s 2020 film Horse Girl, further cementing their professional bond.

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

Widely respected for his unique storytelling style and ability to bring deeply human narratives to life, Baena has left behind a legacy of impressive films and collaborations that are beloved by fans and colleagues alike.

Jeff Baena made his directorial debut in 2014 with the horror-comedy Life After Beth, which featured an ensemble cast including John C. Reilly, Molly Shannon and Aubrey Plaza herself. The film marked not only the beginning of Baena’s directing career, but also the beginning of a creative and very personal partnership with Plaza.

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

In the previous conversation with PeoplePlaza reflected on the unique experience of working alongside Baena during the COVID-19 pandemic. “While we were doing the show, it was very stressful because we were in quarantine and Jeff, he created the show; it was his idea,” she said. “Our house has turned into a weird post-production facility, and he’s downstairs on his Zooms or in his sessions, and I’m upstairs editing, (and) we’re just going back and forth.”

She added: “We were in quarantine for months and months, just like everyone else. And we loved it. I think it was, obviously, apart from all the catastrophic things that are going on in the world, just on a personal level, on a relationship level, like, it’s nice just to be forced to be in one place for so long, I think it could have gone either way.”

Plaza also emphasized the benefits of sharing the creative industry with her husband, explaining, “I think when you’re with someone 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 the journey we’re both on.”

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

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

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

“Terrible. I offer my condolences,” said another user of social networks.

Someone else wrote: “Prayers to her and his family.”

Aubrey Plaza has not yet publicly commented on her husband’s death.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, contact your local helpline. Contact the Suicide and Crisis Helpline at 988 for free and confidential 24/7 support.