Aubrey Plaza Returns to SNL for First Public Appearance Since Tragic Loss

NEW YORK — Aubrey Plaza marked her first public appearance since the death of her husband, director Jeff Baena, during the “Saturday Night Live” 50th anniversary special on Feb. 16, 2025. Plaza, who hosted SNL for the first time in 2023, introduced the musical performance by Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard, singing Sinéad O’Connor’s iconic song, “Nothing Compares 2 U.” The event held significant emotional weight as Plaza returned to a platform that has been a cornerstone of her career.

Plaza’s appearance came just over a month after Baena, age 47, tragically died by suicide on Jan. 3. Her planned presentation at the Golden Globes two days prior was canceled due to his untimely passing. During the SNL special, she wore a tie-dyed shirt beneath a black blazer, a nod to Baena’s interest in tie-dyeing — a hobby he picked up during the pandemic.

“Jeff got really into tie-dyeing during the quarantine, so I decided that Jeff and I were going to wear tie-dye pajamas that he made for us,” Plaza had shared in a previous interview about their wedding in 2020.

In a joint statement released after Baena’s death, Plaza and her in-laws expressed their grief, stating, “This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time.” Members of the Baena and Stern families were included in that statement as they navigated their immense loss together.

Throughout the night, several tributes and acknowledgments of Baena’s influence in the film industry resonated, particularly from those who worked closely with him. Actor Adam Pally, who collaborated with Baena on multiple projects, reflected on their friendship and shared a heartfelt message on Instagram. “My heart breaks for my friend Aubrey and the Baena family,” he wrote. “He was a collaborator, a mentor, the scrappiest basketball player with the ugliest jump shot you ever saw.”

Plaza’s introduction on SNL was a touching moment for many of her fans and peers in Hollywood, who recognized her courage in facing public adversity. “Ladies and gentlemen, Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard,” she announced as she stood near the audience, holding a microphone. Their rendition of O’Connor’s powerful ballad resonated deeply, further emphasizing the night’s emotional tribute.

Baena was known for his work on various projects, including “I Heart Huckabees,” “The Little Hours,” and the recent Netflix film, “Horse Girl.” The arts community mourned his loss, with Plaza maintaining a visible presence through various social media tributes shared by friends and colleagues following his death.

As she continues to process her grief, Plaza’s return to SNL not only marked a significant personal milestone but also provided a stage for honoring her late husband’s legacy. Her resilience and the support of her Hollywood peers remain vital as she navigates this challenging chapter in her life.