Adam Pally shared a moving tribute to his close friend and frequent collaborator, director Jeff brothersfollowing the filmmaker’s tragic death on January 4 at the age of 47.

Baena, who was married to the actress Place Aubreywas discovered by a deputy at a Los Angeles area home on January 3. The Los Angeles medical examiner later ruled his death a suicide.

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

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

Remembering Baena, Pally described him as a “mentor” and “collaborator” but couldn’t help but add a lighthearted jab, calling him “the most scrappy basketball player with the jump shot the ugliest thing you’ve ever seen.”

In her tribute, Pally highlighted Baena’s many qualities beyond his talent as a director. “He was a talented director with impeccable taste and vision, he was a connector between people, a promoter of possibilities, the guy who knew where the best restaurant was, no matter where you were,” he said. he writes.

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

Their collaborations 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 then took on a larger role in “Joshy,” as an actor and producer, before reuniting with Baena for “The Little Hours.”

Speaking about Baena’s approach to filmmaking, Pally praised his relentless pursuit of authenticity. “Jeff was looking for truth. Nothing could look, sound or sound inauthentic, which was a direct representation of who Jeff was. Authentic,” he said.

Pally pointed out that Baena’s honesty was one of her defining virtues. “You were never afraid that Jeff wouldn’t tell you what’s going on, because Jeff’s virtue was to tell you what’s going on.”

The actor concluded 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, at his house or in his orbit. Thank you for believing in me, Jeff. May your memory be a blessing. “

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

Plaza and Baena, who first crossed paths in 2011, collaborated on several projects over the years before Plaza revealed in 2021 that they had married. In a 2019 interview with PEOPLE MagazinePlaza offered some insight into their relationship.

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

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

However, a statement released to Deadline Saturday, said: “The family is devastated and asks for privacy during this difficult time.”

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help. In the United States, you can contact Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.