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Aubrey Plaza recently made an appearance on Amy Poehler’s podcast, Good Hang, where she discussed her upcoming dark comedy, Honey Don’t!, and for the first time, she opened up about the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Jeff Baena. Tragically, Baena passed away by suicide earlier this year at just 47 years old.
Plaza and Baena had shared a decade-long relationship before tying the knot in 2021, and their partnership was not just romantic but creatively intertwined, leaving a significant mark on Plaza’s life both personally and professionally.
Facing the Unimaginable
During the podcast, Poehler compassionately acknowledged the tough year Plaza has endured, inviting her to share her emotional state.
Plaza responded with a sense of resilience, saying, “Overall, I’m here and I’m functioning. I feel grateful to be moving through the world.” Yet, she was candid about the daily struggle of navigating her grief. Isn’t it remarkable how people can find strength amidst such profound sorrow?
Plaza drew an evocative parallel between her grief and the Apple TV+ movie The Gorge.
She described her feelings as akin to the film’s characters, who face monstrous challenges. This metaphor resonated deeply as she expressed how grief can feel like an ocean of despair—an overwhelming presence that she can see but sometimes longs to escape.
Such vivid imagery underscores the complexities of emotional recovery after such a devastating loss.
Support and Solitude in Grief
In the immediate wake of Baena’s passing, Plaza and his family released a heartfelt statement, expressing both their heartbreak and gratitude for the outpouring of support, while also asking for privacy during this challenging time.
These moments of public vulnerability are vital for understanding how individuals cope with loss, especially under the scrutiny of the public eye. Plaza’s decision to share her journey through grief sparks an important conversation about the necessity of support systems and the diverse paths to healing.
This year, Plaza has kept a relatively low profile, with Honey Don’t! marking her return to the silver screen. During her chat with Poehler, she reflected on what brings her joy and laughter in the aftermath of her loss. She revealed that while she doesn’t often find humor in the media she consumes, her friends play a crucial role in lifting her spirits. Isn’t it fascinating how the people we surround ourselves with can help us heal?
Finding Laughter Amidst Heartache
Poehler’s inquiry about what makes Plaza laugh took on a deeper significance given her recent experiences. Plaza emphasized the importance of her close friends in providing comfort and laughter during these trying times. This acknowledgment underlines the role of community in overcoming personal tragedy and serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
As Plaza continues to navigate her grief, her openness shines as a beacon of inspiration for others facing similar struggles. Her reflections on loss, emotional vulnerability, and the quest for joy amidst sorrow resonate deeply, reminding us all of the intricate dance between love, loss, and the ongoing journey of healing. How do we find joy in the midst of heartache? Perhaps, like Plaza, we lean on our loved ones to help guide us through the darkness.
