Debby Ryan recently paid a touching tribute to Jeff Baena, the late husband of actress Aubrey Plaza, on what would have been his 48th birthday. In an emotional post shared on Instagram, Ryan reflected on her friendship with Baena, who was a celebrated screenwriter and director, known for his work on films like *Horse Girl* and *Spin Me Round*, both of which featured Ryan.
In her tribute, Ryan shared a carousel of heartfelt memories, expressing her grief and admiration for Baena. “Happy birthday Jeff ✨ Bear with me, I’ve never been a public griever, and have a hard time sharing fragile feelings with strangers,” she wrote. “I’ve thought about him every day for the past six months.” Ryan described Baena as not only a dear friend but also a cherished collaborator and mentor, stating, “At the beginning of the year, I lost a dear friend… it’s been very hard and heavy, and a lot of people lost him because he was like the nucleus of this whole Jeff universe.”
The post included various photos that showcased moments shared with Baena, Ryan, and her husband, Josh Dun, as well as appearances from other notable figures like Ayden Mayeri, Matthew Gray Gubler, Fred Armisen, and Zach Woods. Ryan’s heartfelt words resonated with many, as she emphasized Baena’s generosity and warmth. “He was generous. Warm while principled. Intentional with a casual lilt,” she wrote, reflecting on his unique qualities and the impact he had on those around him.
Ryan highlighted Baena’s belief in her talent, stating, “He believed in me. I feel really proud to be able to say that.” She expressed gratitude for the way he encouraged her to embrace her identity and potential, noting, “Like good friendship helps you love yourself, good collaboration gives you the chance to be the best evolution of yourself.”
The tribute took a deeply personal turn as Ryan shared her ongoing struggle with grief. “Six months of trying to make sense of this, oscillating between heavy grief and clamoring for acceptance,” she wrote. She reflected on the profound loss and the memories of projects they had planned together, stating, “Months of discoveries of the things he left behind; and the gifts he continues to give me and those who he shone his light on.”
Ryan concluded her heartfelt message with a poignant farewell, saying, “Thanks for all of it, Jeff. Love you dude. ✨ and happy birthday.” Her tribute not only honored Baena’s legacy but also brought attention to the importance of mental health, especially in the wake of his tragic passing, which was ruled a suicide earlier this year.
In the wake of Baena’s death, many celebrities have rallied around Plaza, offering their support and condolences. Actress Selma Blair expressed her sorrow in the comments of Plaza’s recent Instagram post, stating, “No words can touch this painful time. Only love and strength and support from everyone. I am so sorry.” The outpouring of love from the entertainment community highlights the profound impact Baena had on those around him.
As fans of Hollywood artists, it’s essential to recognize the personal struggles that often accompany the glitz and glamour of fame. The tributes from Ryan and others remind us of the human side of celebrities, their friendships, and the deep connections they forge within their industry. In moments of loss, we see the strength of community and the importance of supporting one another through grief.
Baena’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who knew him and those who appreciate his work. As fans, we can honor his memory by celebrating the creativity and joy he brought to the world, while also being mindful of the challenges that come with the pressures of fame. In the end, the stories we share and the love we give can help keep the spirit of those we’ve lost alive in our hearts.