Aubrey Plaza makes first appearance on SNL in tribute to Jeff Baena – E! News
Aubrey Plaza made a poignant return to Saturday Night Live’s 50th-anniversary special by introducing Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard’s performance of Sinéad O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U.” This marked her first significant appearance following the tragic suicide of her husband, Jeff Baena. Plaza, a former SNL intern and NBC Page, was originally scheduled to present at the 2025 Golden Globes but had to miss it due to her husband’s untimely passing.
In a joint statement with her family, including mother Barbara Stern, stepfather Roger Stern, father Scott Baena, and stepmother Michele Baena, Plaza expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support during this challenging time and requested privacy as they navigated their grief.
Plaza’s SNL family, which included close friend and Parks and Recreation co-star Amy Poehler, provided a supportive environment during the celebratory event. Additionally, Molly Shannon, a fellow SNL alum who collaborated frequently with Jeff Baena on various projects, paid tribute to him on Instagram. Photos shared by Shannon depicted heartfelt moments with Baena, accompanied by a broken heart emoji, while Adam Pally recalled Baena’s generous character and influential presence in the industry.
Adam Pally’s tribute extended beyond professional admiration, emphasizing Baena’s personal qualities, which left a lasting impact on those who knew him. The heartfelt messages conveyed the deep loss felt by Plaza, her family, and colleagues within the film industry.
The reemergence of Plaza on SNL’s anniversary underscored the show’s ability to bring people together, mirroring high school reunions that reunite old friends in a nostalgic setting. Plaza’s return was particularly poignant given the circumstances of her personal loss, highlighting the resilience and fortitude she displayed by appearing on the iconic show amidst a period of mourning.
As Plaza stood on the celebrated stage of SNL, surrounded by familiar faces and well-wishers, she paid tribute to her late husband by embracing the opportunity to honor his memory within the supportive community that marked her career. The significance of Plaza’s return went beyond a mere television appearance; it symbolized a moment of strength, unity, and remembrance within the entertainment industry.
Plaza’s emotional return to SNL’s milestone celebration served as a testament to the enduring bonds formed through shared experiences and camaraderie. Amidst grief and loss, Plaza found solace and support among her peers, reaffirming the resilience and compassion that define the entertainment world and its capacity to uplift and unite individuals in times of hardship.