Aubrey Plaza was born on June 26, 1984, in Wilmington, Delaware. She is best known for her breakout role as April Ludgate in the hit television series Parks and Recreation. Plaza's unique blend of deadpan humor and quirky charm quickly made her a fan favorite. Her portrayal of the apathetic and sarcastic April earned her critical acclaim and firmly established her as a rising star in Hollywood.
Plaza's talent and versatility were further showcased when she was cast in FX's Legion in 2016. Her performance as Lenny Busker, a mentally unstable and unpredictable character, demonstrated her range as an actress. Plaza's ability to inhabit complex and challenging roles has set her apart in the industry.
In 2012, Plaza made her debut leading role in a feature film with Safety Not Guaranteed. Her portrayal of Darius, a skeptical and unconventional journalist, earned her praise for her nuanced and layered performance. Plaza's willingness to take on unconventional and offbeat roles has endeared her to audiences and critics alike.
Plaza continued to showcase her comedic chops in 2016's Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates. Her portrayal of Tatiana, a wild and adventurous party girl, solidified her reputation as a comedic powerhouse. Plaza's comedic timing and charisma have made her a sought-after talent in the industry.
In 2019, Plaza took on the iconic role of Karen Barclay in the remake of Child's Play. Her performance as the determined and resourceful mother desperate to protect her son from a murderous doll showcased her dramatic range. Plaza's ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama has made her a versatile actress with broad appeal.
Before achieving fame, Plaza had a guest role in the series 30 Rock in 2006. She honed her craft as an improv student at the Upright Citizens Brigade, where she developed her quick wit and sharp comedic instincts. Plaza's background in improvisational comedy has served her well in her career, allowing her to bring spontaneity and authenticity to her performances.
In addition to her work in film and television, Plaza has made appearances in a variety of projects. She guest judged on a 2011 episode of Food Network Star, showcasing her love of food and cooking. Plaza also provided the voice of Grumpy Cat in Lifetime's television movie Grumpy Cat's Worst Christmas Ever, demonstrating her talent for voice work.
Plaza's family has always been an important part of her life. Her parents, Bernadette and David, have been supportive of her acting career from the beginning. Plaza has two sisters, Renee and Natalie, who have always been her biggest cheerleaders. In 2021, Plaza married director Jeff Baena, cementing their love and partnership.
Throughout her career, Plaza has worked with a variety of talented actors and filmmakers. She starred alongside Michael Cera in the film Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, showcasing her chemistry and comedic rapport with her co-stars. Plaza's ability to connect with her fellow actors and bring out the best in them has made her a valued collaborator in the industry.
As Plaza's career continues to thrive, she remains committed to pushing boundaries and challenging herself creatively. Her fearless approach to her work and her willingness to take risks have made her a standout in the entertainment industry. Plaza's dedication to her craft and her passion for storytelling have solidified her status as a rising star to watch in Hollywood.