Aubrey Plaza is bravely sharing her journey through profound grief. In a recent appearance on Amy Poehler’s “Good Hang” podcast, Plaza opened up about the daily challenges she faces following the death of her husband, filmmaker Jeff Baena. Describing her state as simply “daily struggle,” Plaza offered a raw and honest glimpse into navigating life after loss.
A Personal Loss
Jeff Baena, a filmmaker, died by suicide in January at the age of 47. Plaza and Baena had been together since 2011 and married in 2021. According to The Guardian, The Cut, People.com, Los Angeles Times, Times of India, and 9News, the actress’s recent interview shed light on her grieving process. A statement released by Plaza and Baena’s family after his death described the event as “an unimaginable tragedy.” Reports indicate that Plaza and Baena had separated a few months before his death.
Navigating Grief: “A Daily Struggle”
Plaza’s conversation with Amy Poehler provided a space for her to articulate the complexities of her grief. She expressed gratitude for her ability to “function” and move through the world, acknowledging that this “functioning” is a “daily struggle.”
The Ocean of Awfulness Analogy
To illustrate the ever-present nature of her grief, Plaza shared an analogy drawn from the Apple sci-fi horror film, “The Gorge.” She described her grief as a constant “giant ocean of awfulness.” This ocean is always there, sometimes tempting her to “dive in,” other times prompting her to simply “look at it,” and still other times inspiring her to try and “get away from it.” This powerful image captures the fluctuating and relentless nature of grief, highlighting the constant effort required to manage its impact.
Public Reaction and Support
News outlets such as The Guardian, The Cut, People.com, Los Angeles Times, Times of India, and 9News have reported on Plaza’s candid discussion. The public response has been largely supportive, with many expressing empathy and understanding for her situation. Sharing her experience publicly can help others who are also navigating loss and grief to feel less alone.
The Importance of Open Dialogue
Aubrey Plaza’s willingness to speak openly about her grief contributes to a broader conversation about mental health and the grieving process. By sharing her personal experience, she helps to destigmatize grief and encourages others to seek support when needed. This vulnerability can be particularly impactful for those who admire her work and may be facing similar challenges.
Conclusion
Aubrey Plaza’s open discussion about her “daily struggle” with grief highlights the ongoing challenges of navigating loss. By sharing her experience, she offers a valuable perspective on the complexities of grief and the importance of seeking support and understanding. Her vulnerability resonates with many and underscores the need for continued dialogue about mental health and the grieving process.
