Sebastián Lelio, the acclaimed Chilean filmmaker who won the Oscar for A Fantastic Woman, has died at 52. He passed away at his home in Santiago on November 6, 2026.
His partner and actress Amalia Kassai recently issued her statement on social media. She revealed that Lelio died “due to health reasons.” Kassai initially contacted the police after Lelio was found at his home in the Las Condes district of Santiago, reports Variety.
“We are going through a very painful time, and his memory will remain with us forever. He was a wonderful person who contributed to Chilean culture during important moments in its history,” Kassai wrote in her statement. She also asked for “respect for our privacy and consideration” during this difficult phase.
Sebastián Lelio was born on March 8, 1974, in Mendoza, Argentina. Throughout his filmmaking career, he earned recognition for several films. His career reached a milestone in 2018 when his R-rated LGBTQ+ drama A Fantastic Woman won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
It also won the Independent Spirit Award for best international film. Starring Daniela Vega as a transgender woman, the movie also made a huge social impact. It helped advance legal recognition and rights for transgender people in Chile.
Lelio also earned widespread recognition for his other movies, including the 2022 mystery thriller The Wonder. The film starred Florence Pugh, alongside Tom Burke, Niamh Algar, and more. Lelio also directed the critically acclaimed 2018 romantic drama Gloria Bell. Its ensemble cast featured Julianne Moore, alongside John Turturro, Michael Cera, Brad Garrett, and Holland Taylor, among others.
Sebastián Lelio’s 2017 romantic drama Disobedience also received praise for its exploration of LGBTQ+ themes. The film starred Rachel Weisz and Rachel McAdams, alongside Alessandro Nivola, Anton Lesser, Bernice Stegers, Allan Corduner, and more.
ComingSoon sends condolences to Lelio’s friends and family at this time.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.net.
