Sebastián Lelio, Chilean Director of Oscar-Winning ‘A Fantastic Woman,’ Dead at 52
Chilean filmmaker Sebastián Lelio, known for his Oscar-winning film 'A Fantastic Woman,' has died at age 52 due to undisclosed health issues. His passing was confirmed by his partner, Amalia Kassai, as the film community mourns the loss of a significant voice in international cinema.
Why it matters
Lelio was a prominent figure in contemporary world cinema, recognized for his humanistic approach to storytelling and LGBTQ+ themes.
Sebastián Lelio, Chilean Director of Oscar-Winning ‘A Fantastic Woman,’ Dead at 52 Sebastián Lelio, the humanistic Chilean filmmaker whose trans drama "A Fantastic Woman" won the Best International Feature Film Oscar in 2018, has died at age 52.
The Chilean publication Emol first revealed the news that he was found dead in his home in Santiago on Friday, November 6, amid an undisclosed health issue. His body was discovered by his partner, the actress/director Amalia Kassai, who starred in his final film, the protest musical "The Wave" from Cannes 2025. Kassai also posted a statement in Spanish on her Instagram account .
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