Aubrey Plaza Robbed of Ability to Speak by Potentially Deadly Stroke: ‘I Was Paralyzed and Lost My Motor Skills’

Aubrey Plaza recently opened up about a life-altering health scare she endured at the tender age of 20. In a candid interview on The Howard Stern Show, the beloved actress from Parks and Recreation shared her experience of suffering a stroke that temporarily paralyzed her and robbed her of her ability to speak.

Reflecting on the incident, Plaza, now 40, recounted the shocking moment it struck. She was in New York City, heading to meet friends for lunch when the stroke occurred mid-sentence. “I walked into their apartment—I hadn’t even taken off my jacket—and it just happened,” she described. What began as a surreal experience quickly escalated into a frightening situation as she lost her motor skills and momentarily forgot how to talk.

Her friends initially believed she was joking, a common reaction given Plaza’s comedic persona. It wasn’t long before they realized the seriousness of the situation and called for an ambulance. Plaza explained how her friends kept questioning whether she needed medical help, to which she could simply nod in response.

However, when paramedics arrived, they were puzzled. Due to her age, they suspected substance abuse rather than a stroke. Plaza noted, “I hadn’t taken any drugs—just birth control, which could have been linked to the stroke.”

Looking back 20 years later, Plaza feels fortunate, expressing gratitude for her rapid recovery. She remarked on the experience, saying that it fundamentally changed her outlook on life. “It sounds cheesy, but I think I’m always aware of how precious life is. I try to keep that perspective daily,” she added, emphasizing the importance of appreciating both the highs and lows of life.

This health scare not only shaped Plaza’s outlook but also highlighted her resilience and determination to make the most of her time. As she continues to thrive in her career, the lessons from that pivotal moment remind her to cherish each day and embrace the journey ahead.