Aubrey Plaza Announces Pregnancy on Smartless Podcast
Actress Aubrey Plaza shared that she is expecting her first child during an upcoming episode of the Smartless podcast. She discussed the news with hosts Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. The announcement follows the death of her husband Jeff Baena in January 2025.
Gage Skidmore from United States of America / Wikimedia (CC BY-SA 2.0)Aubrey Plaza, known for her roles in The White Lotus and Parks and Recreation, announced her pregnancy on an upcoming episode of the Smartless podcast. The podcast is hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. Plaza, aged 41, is expecting her first child with boyfriend Christopher Abbott.
Plaza stated, "Well, there's a baby inside of me," during the episode. The hosts responded with expressions of disbelief and excitement. She confirmed the pregnancy by repeating the statement. " — Aubrey Plaza (New York Post) On the same day as the podcast recording, Plaza visited a doctor for an ultrasound.
She mentioned that her dog also received a scan that day. The ultrasound confirmed the presence of the baby. Plaza expressed interest in motherhood, stating she had always wanted to experience it. She described the process as interesting.
The news of her pregnancy first surfaced publicly last week.
Background on Plaza's Personal Life Plaza's husband, Jeff Baena, died by suicide in January 2025.
The pregnancy announcement comes more than one year after his death. It is unclear when Plaza and Abbott began their relationship. Plaza and Abbott have collaborated professionally on multiple projects.
These include the 2020 film Black Bear and the 2023 to 2024 off-Broadway revival of Danny and the Deep Blue Sea. A source told People magazine that the pregnancy is a surprise following an emotional year and that the couple feels blessed.
Recent Public Appearances Last month, Plaza attended Paris Fashion Week, where she concealed her pregnancy.
She wore a blue coat, burgundy shirt, gray sweatpants, sneakers, and black sunglasses for the outing. The Smartless podcast episode featuring Plaza's announcement is forthcoming.
No specific release date has been provided. Plaza's career includes notable roles in television and film, contributing to her public profile.
Story Timeline
4 events- April 8, 2026
Aubrey Plaza seen walking dog in New York City with visible baby bump.
1 sourceNew York Post - Last week (early April 2026)
News of Aubrey Plaza's pregnancy first surfaced publicly.
1 sourceNew York Post - March 2026
Aubrey Plaza attended Paris Fashion Week concealing her pregnancy.
1 sourceNew York Post - January 2025
Jeff Baena, Aubrey Plaza's husband, died by suicide.
1 sourceNew York Post
Potential Impact
- 01
Public interest in Aubrey Plaza's personal life may increase media coverage of her upcoming projects.
- 02
The Smartless podcast episode could see higher listener engagement due to the pregnancy announcement.
- 03
Plaza's attendance at public events may adjust to accommodate her pregnancy.
- 04
Fans may express support on social media, affecting Plaza's online presence.
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