Aubrey Plaza and Christopher Abbott Expecting First Child After Co-Starring Journey

The couple, who first shared the screen in 2020's 'Black Bear', are set to welcome a baby in fall 2026.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:08am

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An abstract close-up photograph of a shimmering, sequined fabric in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting, capturing the glamour and luxury associated with celebrity culture.The glittering, high-fashion textures of Hollywood's red carpet culture reflect the private joy and personal journey of actors Aubrey Plaza and Christopher Abbott as they prepare to welcome their first child.Los Angeles Today

Actors Aubrey Plaza and Christopher Abbott, who co-starred together in the 2020 psychological drama 'Black Bear', are expecting their first child together. The couple, who have kept their relationship private, are 'feeling very blessed' about the 'beautiful surprise' pregnancy, according to a source. Plaza and Abbott previously reunited on stage in 2023 for a three-month run of the play 'Danny and the Deep Blue Sea'.

Why it matters

The news of Plaza and Abbott's pregnancy comes after a difficult year for Plaza, who quietly separated from her longtime partner Jeff Baena in 2024 and then dealt with the tragic loss of Baena, who died in early 2025. The couple's journey from co-stars to expectant parents provides a heartwarming personal story for fans of their work.

The details

Plaza and Abbott first shared the screen in the 2020 psychological drama 'Black Bear', where they played a couple caught up in a twisted love triangle. Despite not having much time to get to know each other before filming, the two actors developed a strong on-screen chemistry. Three years later, they reunited for an Off-Broadway production of 'Danny and the Deep Blue Sea', with Plaza taking on her first-ever theatrical role opposite Abbott.

  • Plaza and Abbott co-starred in 'Black Bear' in the summer of 2019.
  • The couple's pregnancy was announced in April 2026, with the baby expected to arrive in the fall of that year.
  • Plaza and Abbott's 'Danny and the Deep Blue Sea' stage production ran for three months in late 2023.

The players

Aubrey Plaza

An American actress best known for her roles in the TV series 'Parks and Recreation' and films like 'Black Bear' and 'Emily the Criminal'.

Christopher Abbott

An American actor who rose to prominence for his role as Marnie's boyfriend Charlie on the HBO series 'Girls', and has since appeared in films like 'Black Bear' and the stage production of 'Danny and the Deep Blue Sea' with Plaza.

Jeff Baena

Plaza's longtime partner, a writer and director, who struggled with the couple's separation in 2024 and was found dead in his Los Angeles home in early 2025.

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What they’re saying

“'I don't think Chris and I even really talked or really met or got to know each other at all until a day or something before we started shooting.'”

— Aubrey Plaza, Actress

“'The way it worked out kind of felt right.'”

— Christopher Abbott, Actor

“'I remember I wandered out of the hotel and just bought socks for no reason. I borrowed money to buy socks from Aubrey.'”

— Christopher Abbott, Actor

“'I guess I like to entertain him as well.'”

— Aubrey Plaza, Actress

What’s next

Plaza and Abbott have not yet shared any details about their pregnancy or plans for the future, but fans are eagerly awaiting more updates on the couple's journey to parenthood.

The takeaway

The news of Plaza and Abbott's pregnancy is a heartwarming development in the actors' personal lives, coming after a difficult period for Plaza following her separation and the tragic loss of her former partner. Their journey from co-stars to expectant parents showcases the power of connection and the ability to find joy and new beginnings even in the face of adversity.