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Christopher Abbott addressed the news that partner Aubrey Plaza is expecting a child during a Monday appearance on the “Today” show, offering a warm, slightly bemused reaction as public attention turned to the couple’s growing family.
Abbott’s reaction on the “Today” show: warmth and a wink
When host Jenna Bush Hager offered congratulations, Abbott responded with delight. He called the announcement “very exciting” and laughed when he misread the moment as a nod to his Tony chances. He quickly clarified he was joking, saying life has been “a lot” lately. The actor plays Biff Loman in the Broadway revival of Death of a Salesman, and his stage work has kept him busy.
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How the relationship began and evolved
Their connection traces back to years of crossing paths in theater and film. They have moved from colleagues to partners in the public eye.
- They met while filming the psychological drama Black Bear.
- They later shared the stage in the 2023 Off-Broadway production Danny and the Deep Blue Sea.
- The couple was linked romantically in the summer of 2025, according to reports.
Pregnancy announcement and public confirmations
Reports of Plaza’s pregnancy emerged in the press and were later confirmed by the actress herself on a stream of the SmartLess podcast. Plaza spoke candidly about curiosity around parenthood and said she had long wondered what having a child would be like. She described the development as a meaningful and intriguing life change.
What insiders have said
Sources told People the pregnancy felt like “a beautiful surprise” after a difficult year. Those close to the couple said they felt “very blessed” to be starting a family together. The baby is expected in the fall, according to early reports.
Public life, work, and media moments
Abbott balanced his announcement with references to his stage career. He joked about his Tony prospects when congratulated, then added a more measured note about juggling commitments and personal news. Plaza, meanwhile, has been promoting her latest projects and has discussed the pregnancy during press appearances for her film work.
Grief, separation, and the events that shaped this year
The pregnancy story arrives against a backdrop of loss and recovery. Plaza had been married to director Jeff Baena, whom she wed in 2021 after a decade together. The couple separated in September 2024. Baena died by suicide in January 2025.
Plaza has spoken publicly about navigating grief and continuing to function while mourning. On Amy Poehler’s podcast, she described the pain as “awful” and said she felt gratitude for being able to move forward despite daily struggles.
Mental health resources and urgent help
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
