Adam Pally breaks his silence on the tragic death of his friend Jeff Baena

Adam Pally has shared an emotional tribute to his close friend and frequent collaborator, the director Jeff Brothersafter the filmmaker’s tragic death on January 4th at the age of 47.

Baena, who was married to an actress Aubrey Plazawas discovered by an assistant in a Los Angeles area home on January 3rd. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner later ruled his death a suicide.

Pally worked closely with Baena on several of his most notable films, including Life After Beth, Joshy and The Little Hours.

On January 5, Adam Pally took to Instagram to honor Jeff Baena, sharing a touching tribute that balanced humor, heartfelt memories, and deep admiration.

Pally remembered Baena, describing him as a “mentor” and “collaborator,” but couldn’t resist adding a lighthearted aside, calling him “the fiercest basketball player with the ugliest jump shot you’ve ever seen.”

In his tribute, Pally Baenas highlighted many qualities that go beyond his directing talent. “He was a talented director with impeccable taste and vision, he was a facilitator of people, a promoter of opportunity, the guy who knew where the best restaurant was no matter where you were,” he wrote.

Pally also reflected on Baena’s generosity, calling him “an overly gracious host with an almost disturbing open-door policy, a film encyclopedia and, most importantly to me, a friend.”

Their collaboration spanned nearly a decade, beginning with Life After Beth, where Pally appeared alongside Plaza, Molly Shannon, Cheryl Hines, Matthew Gray Gubler and John C. Reilly. He later took on a larger role in Joshy, where he served as both actor and producer, before reteaming with Baena for The Little Hours.

When discussing Baena’s approach to filmmaking, Pally praised his relentless pursuit of authenticity. “Jeff sought the truth. Nothing could sound, look or feel fake, which was a direct representation of who Jeff was. Authentic,” he said.

Pally emphasized that Baena’s honesty was one of his defining virtues. “You never worried that Jeff didn’t tell you like it was, because Jeff’s virtue told you like it was.”

The actor ended his tribute with a heartfelt message to Baena’s loved ones. “My heart breaks for my friend Aubrey and the Baena family and for all of us who spent time on his sets, in his home or in his orbit. Thanks for believing in me, Jeff. May your memory be a blessing.”

The loss of Baena has left a deep void in the entertainment industry. Known for his genre-bending storytelling and unwavering commitment to his craft, Baena’s legacy will live on through his films and the relationships he fostered throughout his life.

Plaza and Baena, whose paths first crossed in 2011, worked together on several projects over the years before Plaza announced they had tied the knot in 2021. In an interview with PEOPLE magazinePlaza offered a glimpse into their relationship.

“I think when you’re with someone who’s in your field, they understand what you’re dealing with on a deeper level,” the “White Lotus” actress said at the time. “So you’re obviously able to support each other and really understand the journey that we’re both on.

She added: “I think this can be really great. But you know, working with your partner can always be challenging. We do a lot of things separately and I think it’s all about balance.”

However, a statement was released deadline On Saturday it said: “The family is devastated and requests privacy at this difficult time.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please ask for help. In the US, you can contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988 or by text message.