Aubrey Plaza addresses pregnancy for first time after husband's death 15 months ago
Aubrey Plaza says she is interested in starting her motherhood journey after announcing surprise pregnancy with her partner and former co-star, Christopher Abbott.
Last week, representatives for the White Lotus star confirmed that she and Abbott were expecting their first child together, 15 months after the death of Plaza's husband.
Film director Jeff Baena died by suicide in January 2025.
Plaza had been married to the late screenwriter for 12 years - the former couple first met at a game night in 2011 and tied the knot 10 years later. However, the pair later separated in September 2024.
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"It was a beautiful surprise after an emotional year," a source told PEOPLE of the recent pregnancy news, adding: "They feel very blessed."
Plaza has now opened up about the pregnancy for the first time, telling fellow actors Will Arnett, Jason Bateman and Sean Hayes that she is 'excited' to become a mother.
"I've always wanted to see what that's all about," she told the trio during a new episode of their Smartless podcast when discussing motherhood.
"There is a baby inside of me right now."
Going on to reveal that she'd gone for a scan before arriving for the podcast, the actress said: "Today was a big day. I went to the doctor's today, and my dog also went to the doctor's.
"And both of us – my dog's getting a scan right now. I got a scan earlier. I'm not kidding. She had to get an ultrasound on her stomach. And then I got an ultrasound on my stomach, and there is a baby in there," she continued.
"It already has a cloak and a little hat. I think it's gonna come out."
Confirming to the hosts that it was indeed her first child, Plaza went on to reveal that she'd always been intrigued by the prospect of motherhood, adding: "I've always wanted to see what that's all about, you know?
"It just seems so interesting, that whole thing."
It's believed that Plaza and Abbott initially met while filming Black Bear together in 2020, with their friendship later turning romantic in July 2025.
Baena's death understandably had a huge impact on Plaza, who previously opened up about the grief of losing him during an interview with her former Parks and Recreation co-star Amy Poehler.
"At all times, there’s like a giant ocean of awfulness that’s like right there, and I can see it," she said of her feelings after the 47-year-old's death.
"Sometimes, I just want to dive into it and be in it. Then sometimes, I just look at it. Sometimes, I’m just trying to get away from it. But it’s always there."
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, please don’t suffer alone. Call Samaritans for free on their anonymous 24-hour phone line on 116 123 or contact Harmless by visiting their website https://harmless.org.uk.
Topics: Aubrey Plaza, Celebrity, Parenting
Brenna Cooper