Aubrey Plaza Bio
Aubrey Christina Plaza (born June 26, 1984) is an American actress, comedian, and producer. She began performing improv and sketch comedy at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. After graduating from New York University Tisch School of the Arts, Plaza made her feature film debut in Mystery Team (2009) and gained wide recognition for her role as April Ludgate on the NBC political satire sitcom Parks and Recreation (2009–2015). Plaza has received nominations for a Primetime Emmy and a Golden Globe Award for her role in The White Lotus and was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world in 2023.
Early Life and Background
Aubrey Christina Plaza was born on June 26, 1984, in Wilmington, Delaware. She is the eldest of three sisters and was born to Bernadette and David Plaza, who were young parents at the time. Plaza attributes her strong work ethic to her parents, who worked various jobs while attending night school. Her mother eventually became an attorney, and her father a financial advisor. Plaza has Puerto Rican heritage from her paternal side, with her grandfather moving to the mainland United States at the age of 17. She also has some Indigenous American (TaÃno) and Basque heritage. Raised in a Catholic environment, Plaza attended Ursuline Academy, an all-girls Catholic school. During her high school years, she was actively involved in theatrical productions and made short films as a hobby. She also represented her school at a Delaware youth leadership conference held by Joe Biden. Plaza’s love for independent films was nurtured during her teenage years when she worked at a video store.
Path to Hollywood
Plaza’s journey into the entertainment industry began with her training in improv and sketch comedy at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre starting in 2004. She also performed at various comedy venues, including the Laugh Factory and The Improv. Plaza drew inspiration from comedian Amy Poehler, which motivated her to pursue improv. During her time in film school, she interned at Saturday Night Live for the 2004–2005 season and later became an NBC page. This experience led to her appearance in an episode of 30 Rock in 2006. Plaza’s early career included roles in short films and web series, but her breakthrough came when she was cast in the feature film Mystery Team in 2009. This role set the stage for her to pitch the character of April Ludgate in Parks and Recreation, a role that would define her career and earn her critical acclaim.
Aubrey Plaza Career
Early Career (2004–2009)
Plaza’s early career was marked by her performances in improv and sketch comedy, which laid the foundation for her acting style. She made her feature film debut in Derrick Comedy’s Mystery Team in 2009, followed by a role in Judd Apatow’s Funny People. Her portrayal of April Ludgate in Parks and Recreation from 2009 to 2015 became a defining moment in her career, showcasing her unique comedic talent. Plaza received praise for her performance, and April became one of the show’s standout characters.
Breakthrough (2010–2016)
Plaza’s rise in the film industry continued with her role in Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010), where she played Julie Powers. She also starred in the critically acclaimed Safety Not Guaranteed (2012), which earned her the Breakthrough Performance award at the 2012 Young Hollywood Awards. In 2016, she starred in Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates and portrayed Cat Adams in Criminal Minds, further solidifying her presence in both film and television.
Notable Works and Milestones
Plaza’s signature works include Parks and Recreation, Safety Not Guaranteed, and Ingrid Goes West. Her performances have garnered several award nominations, including a Primetime Emmy and a Golden Globe for her role in The White Lotus.
Aubrey Plaza Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Aubrey Plaza has received numerous nominations, highlighting her talent and versatility as an actress.
Aubrey Plaza Awards Won
Plaza has won several awards, including recognition for her performances in various film and television projects.
Aubrey Plaza Family
Aubrey Plaza is the daughter of Bernadette and David Plaza. She has two younger sisters and has often spoken about the influence of her family on her work ethic and career choices.
Personal Life
Aubrey Plaza has been open about her relationships, including a notable romance with actor Michael Cera during the filming of Scott Pilgrim vs. the World. She later married writer and director Jeff Baena in 2021, with whom she had a creative partnership. The couple faced marital difficulties and separated in September 2024. Plaza has also discussed her health challenges, including a stroke at age 20 and social anxiety. She is known for her love of basketball and has faced injuries related to the sport.
