Adam Pali breaks his silence on the tragic death of friend Jeff Baena

Adam Pauly shared an emotional tribute to his close friend and frequent collaborator, the director Jeff Brothersafter the director’s tragic death on January 4 at the age of 47.

Baena, who was married to an actress Aubrey Plazawas found by a helper at a home in the Los Angeles area on January 3. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner later ruled his death a suicide.

Pauly worked closely with Baehn on several of his best-known films, including Life After Beth, Joshi, and The Small Hours.

On Jan. 5, Adam Pali took to Instagram to honor Jeff Baena, sharing a touching tribute that balanced humor, heartfelt memories, and deep admiration.

In remembering Baen, Paly described him as a “mentor” and “co-worker” but couldn’t help but add a flippant jab, calling him “the sharpest basketball player with the ugliest jump shot you’ll ever see.”

In his memoir, Pali highlighted Baena’s many qualities apart from his directorial talent. “He was a talented filmmaker with impeccable taste and vision, he was a connector of people, a facilitator of opportunity, a guy who knew where the best restaurant was, no matter where you were,” he wrote.

Paly also reflected on Baena’s generosity, calling him “an overly gracious host with an almost disturbing open-door policy, an encyclopedia of movies and, most importantly to me, a friend.”

Their collaboration lasted nearly a decade, beginning with “Life After Beth,” where Polly appeared alongside Plaza, Molly Shannon, Cheryl Hines, Matthew Gray Gubler, and John C. Reilly. He later took on a major role in Joshy, acting as both actor and producer, before reuniting with Baehn in Small Hours.

Speaking about Baena’s approach to filmmaking, Pali praised his relentless pursuit of authenticity. “Jeff was after the truth. Nothing could sound, look or feel inauthentic, which was a direct reflection of who Jeff was. Authentic,” he said.

Paly emphasized that Baen’s honesty was one of his defining qualities. “You never worried that Jeff wasn’t telling you like it was, because Jeff’s virtue told you like it was.”

The actor ended his tribute with a heartfelt message to Baena’s loved ones. “My heart breaks for my friend Aubrey and the Baen family, and for all of us who spent time on his set, in his home, or in his orbit. Thanks for believing in me Jeff. May your memory be a blessing.”

The loss of Baena has left a deep void in the entertainment community. Known for his genre-bending storytelling and unwavering dedication to his craft, Baen’s legacy will live on through his films and the relationships he fostered throughout his life.

Plaza and Baena, who first met in 2011, collaborated on several projects over the years before Plaza revealed in 2021 that they had tied the knot. In an interview in 2019 PEOPLE magazinePlaza offered to look into their relationship.

“I think when you’re with someone who’s in your field, they understand what you’re dealing with on a deeper level,” the “White Lotus” actress said at the time. — So, obviously, you can support each other and really understand the path in which we are both.

She added: “So I think it could be really great. But, you know, working with a partner can always be a challenge. There are a lot of things that we do separately, and I think it’s all about balance.”

However, a statement published by Deadline on Saturday, said: “The family is devastated and asks for privacy at this difficult time.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, get help. In the US, you can contact the suicide and emergency services by calling or texting 988.