Aubrey Plaza shares her ongoing battle with grief following the passing of her husband Jeff Baena.

Aubrey Plaza Opens Up About Grieving Her Husband, Jeff Bena

Aubrey Plaza recently shared her feelings of grief following the loss of her husband, Jeff Bena, during a podcast episode.

The actress appeared on Amy Poehler’s “Good Hang” podcast, discussing her emotions after Bena’s suicide in January at the age of 47. “In this very present moment, I am pleased to be with you,” she expressed, reflecting on her ongoing journey. “Overall, I’m here and it’s working.”

Plaza conveyed a sense of gratitude for simply being able to navigate life, saying she felt “alright.” She went on to draw a poignant parallel between mourning and a particular film that portrays two snipers at the edge of a canyon, unaware of what lies ahead.

“That’s how my sadness feels, or what it is,” she elaborated. “There’s always just a terrifying huge ocean right there, and I can see it.” It’s a striking image of the constant presence of grief.

As the conversation unfolded, she described sadness as “a daily struggle.” Recorded nearly seven months after Bena’s death, the interview encapsulates her complex emotions. “Sometimes I want to jump into it and be there, and sometimes I see it, and sometimes I try to get away from it, but it’s always there,” she shared, offering insight into her internal battles.

Plaza and Bena began their relationship in 2011 and wed during the pandemic while celebrating their 10th anniversary. During a simple ceremony, they exchanged vows in their pajamas.

Unfortunately, they had been separated when Bena died in September 2024, as referenced in a report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. In the wake of this tragedy, Plaza and Bena’s family released a joint statement expressing their sorrow. “This is an unimaginable tragedy,” they said. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who provides support. Please respect our privacy during this time.”

Plaza honored her late husband during the SNL 50th anniversary special, wearing a tribute shirt. It’s moments like these that remind us how grief can intertwine with daily life.