Jeff Baena, the independent filmmaker who directed critically noted films including "Life After Beth" and "The Little Hours," died Friday at his Los Angeles home. He was 47.
An assistant discovered Baena at his residence Friday morning, where he was later pronounced dead, according to multiple media reports. The circumstances of his death have not been disclosed.
Baena's family expressed their devastation in a statement to Deadline, requesting privacy as they process their loss. His wife, actress Aubrey Plaza, known for her roles in "The White Lotus" and "Parks and Recreation," has not yet made a public statement.
The director built his career from the ground up, beginning with production work under acclaimed filmmakers Robert Zemeckis and David O'Russell after graduating from New York University's film program. He later established himself as an independent director, making his directorial debut with the 2014 zombie comedy "Life After Beth," which starred Plaza.
Baena and Plaza, who married in 2021, collaborated on several projects throughout their professional and personal relationship, blending their creative perspectives in films that often defied conventional genres.
