Aubrey Plaza Takes on Heidi Fleiss Role in First Major Project Since Husband’s Death

Aubrey Plaza has secured a significant role as she prepares to star in “The Heidi Fleiss Story”, marking her first major project following her husband’s passing. Plaza, famed for her Emmy-nominated acting, will portray Heidi Fleiss, known as the Hollywood madam who faced federal charges for running a high-end prostitution ring. The movie will delve into Fleiss’ life before her trial, exploring her attempts to navigate the legal system with the assistance of a young writer named Jaclyn. The biopic is set to be directed by Leah Rachel, the creator of Netflix’s Chambers, in her directorial debut, adding to the anticipation surrounding the film.

Variety reports that Plaza will not only act but also produce the film through her company Evil Hag, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the project. The storyline will focus on Fleiss’ activities in Los Angeles as she races against time to influence the outcome of her case by leveraging connections and resorting to blackmail. This role comes as Plaza’s first significant project following the tragic loss of her husband, Jeff Baena, in January 2025. Plaza’s dedication to her craft and her willingness to engage in challenging and provocative roles is evident in her decision to take on the character of Heidi Fleiss.

Despite facing personal adversity, Plaza has continued to establish herself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. In 2024, she was involved in various screen projects, including “My Old Ass”, “Megalopolis”, and “Agatha All Along”. Following her appearance in Ethan Coen’s “Honey Don’t!”, Plaza is set to make waves in upcoming productions such as the Susan Sarandon film “The Accompanist” and the TV adaptation “Olga Dies Dreaming”. Her versatility as an actress is further demonstrated by her voice work in animations like “The Ark and the Aardvark” and “Animal Friends”.

Plaza’s journey in the industry has not been devoid of personal challenges, notably the tragic loss of her husband. Baena’s passing deeply affected Plaza, as evidenced by their statement expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support following the incident. Plaza’s dedication to her craft and her ability to navigate personal grief while continuing to pursue her passion for acting serve as a testament to her resilience and professionalism. Her decision to honour her late husband’s memory by paying tribute to him during public appearances underscores the strength of their bond and her commitment to preserving their shared moments.

“The Heidi Fleiss Story” promises to be a compelling exploration of a controversial figure in Hollywood history, offering Plaza an opportunity to showcase her talent and captivate audiences with a nuanced portrayal of Fleiss. The film’s production in Los Angeles in the upcoming months adds to the anticipation surrounding the project, with Plaza’s involvement as both an actress and a producer underscoring her creative vision and commitment to bringing impactful stories to life on screen. Plaza’s upcoming role in the biopic marks a significant chapter in her career, demonstrating her versatility and dedication to her craft as she navigates challenging and thought-provoking narratives on the big screen.