Aubrey Plaza is an American actress and comedian who has become widely known for her deadpan comedic style and portrayals of quirky, sarcastic characters. She first rose to prominence for her role as April Ludgate on the hit NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation. Since then, she has starred in numerous popular films and shows, establishing herself as one of the most versatile comedic actresses working today. According to various reports, Aubrey Plaza’s current net worth stands between $8 million and $9 million. This wealth comes primarily from her acting work across television and film, as well as some writing and producing credits.
Estimated Net Worth of $8 Million to $9 Million
Most sources estimate Aubrey Plaza’s net worth to be around $8 million to $9 million as of 2024. The bulk of her wealth stems from her work as an actress. Some of her biggest paydays have come from long-running TV roles; for example, she earned $30,000 per episode towards the end of Parks and Recreation’s run. She also likely earned over $1 million for movies like Safety Not Guaranteed and The Little Hours. Her producing and writing credits have added $1-2 million more to her wealth. While not extravagantly rich, Plaza has done well for herself in Hollywood on the strength of her comedic talent and versatility.
Career Highlights and Breakout Roles
Aubrey Plaza’s breakthrough came in 2009 when she was cast as April Ludgate on Parks and Recreation. Her portrayal of the gloomy, deadpan intern turned fan-favorite parks department employee earned her critical praise. She appeared in over 125 episodes through the show’s seventh season in 2015. Starring on a network sitcom gave Plaza’s career a huge boost early on.
After establishing herself on Parks and Recreation, Plaza began taking on more movie roles. She had supporting parts in several high-profile comedies like Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010), Funny People (2009), and Dirty Grandpa (2016). Her first leading role came in the quirky sci-fi dramedy Safety Not Guaranteed (2012). Another standout performance was in the 2017 period black comedy The Little Hours, which earned strong reviews.
More recently, Plaza has diversified into prestige TV and genre films. She starred as Lenny Busker in the acclaimed FX series Legion (2017-2019), earning a new level of critical respect. She has also appeared in popular horror films like Ingrid Goes West (2017), Child’s Play (2019), and Black Bear (2020). This range demonstrates Plaza’s impressive versatility as a performer.
Awards and Recognition
While yet to win any major awards, Aubrey Plaza has received various honors over her career. She and the rest of the Parks and Recreation cast earned nominations for Screen Actors Guild Awards in 2010, 2011, and 2012. For her role on Legion, Plaza received a Saturn Award nomination from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films.
Plaza’s cutting comedic skills have also been recognized more broadly. Variety magazine named her one of their “10 Comics to Watch” in 2010. In 2016, Time Out New York_ called her one of the “Most Influential New Yorkers” for her impact on comedy. Though sometimes typecast for her trademark deadpan persona, Plaza has proven her range across diverse roles.
Background and Upbringing
Aubrey Plaza was born in 1984 in Wilmington, Delaware. She participated in various arts programs during high school and went on to attend New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. While struggling early in her career, she worked as an intern and NBC page before finally getting her breakout Parks and Recreation role at age 24.
Despite now being a multi-millionaire celebrity, Plaza has remained humble about her background and roots. In interviews, she often discusses growing up middle-class and pursuing acting despite her parents’ reservations. This grounded perspective serves Plaza well in her portrayals of ordinary, everyday characters on screen.
Background
- Born in 1984 in Wilmington, Delaware. Her father worked for the Postal Service and her mother was an attorney.
- Started performing in productions at the Wilmington Drama League as a child. Majored in film at New York University.
- Got her start doing improv comedy at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York after college. Was part of the sketch comedy group The Stepfathers.
- Landed her breakout role as April Ludgate on Parks and Recreation in 2009 after interning at NBC. Quickly became a fan favorite on the show.
- Made her film debut with small roles in Judd Apatow’s Funny People (2009) and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010).
- Continued acting in movies during Parks and Recreation’s run, including key roles in Safety Not Guaranteed (2012), Life After Beth (2014), and Dirty Grandpa (2016).
- After Parks ended, starred as Lenny Busker in FX’s acclaimed series Legion (2017-2019), further demonstrating her acting range.
- Has appeared in popular recent films including Ingrid Goes West (2017), Child’s Play (2019), and Black Bear (2020).
- Known for deadpan style and portraying quirky, sarcastic characters. Also wrote and produced some of her projects.
- Remains private about her personal life. Has been in a long-term relationship with director Jeff Baena since 2011.
- Known for staying grounded and humble about her success. Maintains her trademark wit and humor in interviews.
Conclusion
With an estimated net worth of around $8 million to $9 million, Aubrey Plaza has done very well for herself in Hollywood. While not a massive fortune, her wealth reflects consistent success across over 15 years in the industry. As Plaza continues taking on exciting new projects – such as her role in the hit HBO series The White Lotus – her star power and wealth will likely keep rising. Regardless of accolades and earnings, however, Plaza remains admired for her hilarious deadpan comedy and relatable on-screen persona. Her net worth is simply a byproduct of the unique comedic talents that have made her a favorite with critics and everyday audiences alike.
FAQs
What is Aubrey Plaza’s background?
Aubrey Plaza grew up in Wilmington, Delaware and participated in arts programs in high school before attending New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. She comes from a middle-class background.
How did Aubrey Plaza get her big break?
Plaza’s breakout role came when she was cast as April Ludgate on NBC’s sitcom Parks and Recreation in 2009. She appeared in over 125 episodes and gained widespread popularity.
What is Aubrey Plaza’s net worth?
Plaza’s current net worth is estimated to be around $8 million to $9 million. The bulk of her wealth comes from television and film acting roles.
What are some of Aubrey Plaza’s most acclaimed roles?
Some standouts include Parks and Recreation, Safety Not Guaranteed, The Little Hours, Legion, Ingrid Goes West, and The White Lotus. She is known for portraying quirky, deadpan characters.
Has Aubrey Plaza won any major awards?
While yet to win a major award, Plaza has received honors like SAG Award nominations for Parks and Recreation and a Saturn Award nomination for Legion. She was also named one of Variety’s “10 Comics to Watch” in 2010.
