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Sebastián Lelio, acclaimed Chilean filmmaker, dies at 52
6 Nov
Summary
- Acclaimed Chilean filmmaker Sebastián Lelio has passed away at 52.
- He won an Oscar for his trans drama 'A Fantastic Woman'.
- His notable works include 'Gloria Bell' and 'The Wonder'.
Renowned Chilean filmmaker Sebastián Lelio has died at the age of 52. His partner, Amalia Kassai, confirmed his passing, noting it was a difficult time for his family. Lelio, born in Argentina but raised in Chile, began his career after studying journalism and graduating from film school.
His early works included the 2003 documentary 'Cero' and the 2005 narrative film 'The Sacred Family.' Lelio achieved international acclaim with his 2013 drama 'Gloria,' which premiered at the Berlin Film Festival and earned its lead actress an award. This success paved the way for his Oscar-winning film, 'A Fantastic Woman,' a powerful drama about a transgender woman that became the first Chilean film to win the Best International Feature Oscar.
Lelio also directed English-language films, including 'Disobedience,' a queer love story starring Rachel Weisz, and a remake of 'Gloria' titled 'Gloria Bell,' featuring Julianne Moore. His adaptation of Emma Donoghue's novel, 'The Wonder,' starring Florence Pugh, was critically acclaimed. His final film, 'The Wave,' a musical protest drama, premiered at Cannes in 2025.
