Top 10 Coolest Things About Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza has built a career that moves easily between sharp comedy, psychological drama, and fearless indie filmmaking, while steadily expanding into producing and voice work. She’s known for memorable TV characters, ambitious film choices, and a knack for elevating smart, off-beat projects into mainstream conversation. Here are ten concrete highlights that show how her screen roles and creative decisions have added up to a singular path—and why so many filmmakers keep seeking her out.

‘Parks and Recreation’ (2009–2015) – the deadpan breakout that put her on the map

Universal Television

Plaza became widely known for playing April Ludgate, a sardonic assistant whose arc evolved into management, mentorship, and public-service leadership. She appeared in 126 episodes, with a one-off special bringing the character back years later. The ensemble sitcom gave her long-form character development alongside an ever-growing cast. The role established her timing, low-key delivery, and comfort in workplace comedy.

‘Safety Not Guaranteed’ (2012) – first leading film role in a festival-launched indie

Duplass Brothers Productions

As Darius, an intern investigating a mysterious classified ad, Plaza anchored a grounded sci-fi dramedy that premiered at major festivals and expanded theatrically. The reporting-meets-time-travel premise relied on her balancing skepticism with curiosity. It was an early example of her carrying a feature outside studio comedy. The project connected her with a generation of indie directors and producers.

‘Ingrid Goes West’ (2017) – star and producer exploring social-media obsession

Star Thrower Entertainment

Plaza both headlined and produced this dark comedy about fixation and online identity. The film pairs her with an ensemble cast and tracks influencer culture through Los Angeles settings. As a producer, she helped shepherd a script that mixes satire with character study. The release sparked wide discussion about parasocial dynamics and digital performance.

‘Legion’ (2017–2019) – a genre series that let her play multiple personas

Marvel Television

On the superhero-adjacent series, Plaza portrayed a character who shifts between ally, antagonist, and manifestation. The role required musical numbers, physical performance, and rapid tonal pivots. Episodes often reimagined her character’s function within dreamlike structures. The part showcased her range beyond straightforward comedy into psychological and surreal territory.

‘Black Bear’ (2020) – a meta drama that doubled down on creative risk

Blue Creek Pictures

Plaza starred in a two-part narrative that reframes power, authorship, and performance on a remote film set. The production uses mirrored roles to explore how stories are constructed. She also served in a producing capacity, aligning with a team known for rigorous, dialogue-driven features. The film became a calling card for filmmakers seeking unpredictable, layered leads.

‘Happiest Season’ (2020) – a holiday ensemble where a supporting turn stood out

Temple Hill Entertainment

In this studio-backed romantic comedy, Plaza’s character intersects with the central couple during a tense family gathering. The part deepened the film’s themes of identity and acceptance. Her scenes sparked extensive audience conversation and press coverage. The movie broadened her visibility with seasonal streaming audiences.

‘The White Lotus: Season 2’ (2022) – the prestige drama ensemble with major accolades

Rip Cord Productions

Plaza joined the anthological resort satire as part of a couple navigating power and suspicion. The season earned awards recognition across categories, including acting and ensemble honors. Her performance was cited in critics’ lists and guild nominations. The role placed her within prestige drama while maintaining her edge for off-kilter tension.

‘Emily the Criminal’ (2022) – producer-star turn in a lean neo-noir

Low Spark Films

Plaza led the story of a gig worker pulled into a credit-card fraud ring, focusing on economic pressure and agency. She produced the film, aligning with a compact shoot and location-driven storytelling. The release drew festival buzz and widespread critical praise. The performance reinforced her momentum as a dramatic lead.

‘Saturday Night Live’ (2023) – an alumna who returned as host after interning

Universal Television

Before her screen breakthrough, Plaza interned at the show’s design department, giving her early exposure to live comedy. Years later, she hosted an episode featuring original sketches, guest cameos, and pre-taped pieces. The appearance connected her career back to New York comedy roots. It highlighted her adaptability to live performance and quick-turn format.

Producing slate, voice work, and creative partnerships beyond the spotlight

Nickelodeon

Plaza’s production banner has backed projects including features like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’ and collaborations on films such as ‘Black Bear’. In voice acting, she has contributed to series and films including ‘The Legend of Korra’, ‘Grumpy Cat’s Worst Christmas Ever’, and other animated titles. She has also executive-produced animated television such as ‘Little Demon’, where she voiced a lead role. These choices show a consistent emphasis on creator-driven material and multi-hyphenate involvement.

Which project do you think best captures what makes Aubrey Plaza unique—drop your pick in the comments!