Jeff Baena, an acclaimed independent filmmaker renowned for directing Life After Beth and co-writing I Heart Huckabees, has died at the age of 47. The Los Angeles County medical examiner confirmed that Baena passed away on Friday at his home in Los Angeles.
According to 7 News, Baena had been married to White Lotus star Aubrey Plaza since 2021. The couple shared both a personal and professional bond, collaborating on several films, including Life After Beth (2014), where Plaza took on a leading role.
The cause of Baena’s sudden death has not been disclosed at this time.
A graduate of New York University’s film program, Baena moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in filmmaking. Starting as a production assistant, he later transitioned to an assistant editor role. It was during this period that he worked closely with director David O. Russell, co-writing the 2004 dark comedy I Heart Huckabees. The film featured an ensemble cast including Mark Wahlberg, Dustin Hoffman, and Lily Tomlin.
Baena’s contributions to independent cinema left a lasting mark, and he will be remembered for his unique storytelling and collaborations.