Aubrey Plaza recently opened up about her journey through grief after the tragic loss of her husband, Jeff Baena. In a heartfelt chat on the podcast “Good Hang,” hosted by her friend and co-star Amy Poehler, she shared her “daily struggles” and how she is learning to navigate life without him.
“I feel happy to be with you. I’m here and I’m functioning,” Plaza said. “I’m really grateful to be moving through this world.” These words reflect a mix of resilience and vulnerability, which many people can relate to when dealing with loss.
Baena, an independent filmmaker, passed away by suicide in January. The couple married in 2021 and worked together on several films like “Spin Me Around” and “The Little Hours.” Their creative partnership made their bond even stronger.
During the interview, Plaza compared her grief to a scene in the film “The Gorge,” starring Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy. She described a gorge filled with terrifying monsters, symbolizing her emotional battles. “There’s a giant ocean of just awfulness that’s right there,” she explained. “I can see it, and sometimes I just want to dive into it. Other times, I’m trying to get away, but it’s always there.”
Grief can feel like a constant presence, much like Plaza describes. According to the American Psychological Association, about 1 in 5 adults experience significant grief after losing a loved one. It’s a normal response, but it can be overwhelming.
Experts in mental health often emphasize the importance of reaching out for support. Therapists suggest that talking about feelings and sharing experiences with friends or professionals can aid healing. Social media reactions show that many people are moved by Plaza’s openness, sparking conversations about mental health and the need for community support.
As Plaza shares her story, she reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit. With time and support, healing is not just possible—it’s a journey many of us can navigate together.
For more insights on coping with grief, you can visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness at NAMI.
