Adam Pally shared an emotional tribute to his close friend and frequent collaborator, the director Jeff Brothersafter the tragic death of the director on January 4 at the age of 47.

Baena, who was married to an actress Aubrey Plazarevealed a home assistant in Los Angeles on January 3. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner later ruled his death a suicide.

Pally worked closely with Baen on several of his most notable films, including "Life After Beth," "Joshy" and "The Little Hours."

Adam Pali took to Instagram on January 5 to pay tribute to Jeff Baena, sharing a moving tribute that balanced humor, heartfelt memories and deep admiration.

Remembering Baena, Pally described him as a "mentor" and "collaborator" but couldn't resist adding a light-hearted jab, calling him "the weakest basketball player with the ugliest jumper you've ever seen."

In his tribute, Pally highlighted Baena's many qualities beyond his directorial talent. "He was a talented director with impeccable taste and vision, a connector of people, a nurturer of opportunity, a guy who knows where the best restaurant is wherever you are," he wrote.

Pally also referred to Baena's generosity, calling him "an overly gracious host with an almost disturbing open-door policy, a film encyclopedia, and most importantly, a friend."

Their collaboration 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 later took on a larger role in "Joshy," serving as both actor and producer, before reuniting with Baen in "The Little Hours."

Speaking about Baena's approach to filmmaking, Pally praised his relentless pursuit of authenticity. "Jeff strove for the truth. Nothing could sound, look or feel inauthentic, which directly represented who Jeff was. Authentic," he said.

Pally pointed out that Baena's honesty was one of his virtues. "You never worried that Jeff wasn't telling you like it was, because Jeff's virtue told you like it was."

The actor concluded his tribute with a heartfelt message to Baena's loved ones. "My heart breaks for my friend Aubrey and the Baen family and for all of us who spent time on his sets or in his house or in his orbit. Thanks 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 dedication to his craft, Baena's legacy will live on through his films and the relationships he nurtured 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 tied the knot. In a 2019 interview PEOPLE MagazinePlaza offered insight into their relationship.

"I think when you're with someone who's 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 can support each other and we 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 issued to Deadline he reported on Saturday: "The family is devastated and requests privacy at this difficult time."

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out for help. In the US, you can contact the Suicide and Crisis Line by calling or texting 988.