Chilean filmmaker Sebastián Lelio, Oscar winner, dies at 52

Sebastián Lelio, the Chilean filmmaker known for directing the Oscar-winning film 'A Fantastic Woman,' died at 52, according to reports from Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, and Variety. He was found dead at his home in the Las Condes district of Santiago, Chile, with his partner contacting authorities.

Lelio was celebrated for several films including 'Gloria' and its English-language remake 'Gloria Bell,' 'Disobedience,' 'The Wonder,' and most notably 'A Fantastic Woman,' which won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2018. The film starred Daniela Vega as a transgender woman and was recognized for its impact on gender identity reforms in Chile.

His 2017 film 'Disobedience' starred Rachel Weisz and Rachel McAdams, while 'The Wonder' (2022) explored themes of religious fanaticism and sexual abuse. Lelio's most recent film was 'The Wave' (2025), a musical drama inspired by Chile's feminist protest movement.

Variety reported that Lelio's partner, actress Amalia Kassai, stated his death was due to health reasons. The families requested privacy during this difficult time. Lelio's work was noted for its cultural significance and contributions to Chilean cinema and beyond.