10 November,2026 07:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Florence Pugh and Sebastián Lelio pic via Instagram
Oscar-winning director Sebastián Lelio passed away on November 6 in Santiago. Known for films such as The Wonder and The Wave, the filmmaker was 52. Following his demise, several celebrities took to social media to pay heartfelt tributes. Florence Pugh, who collaborated with Lelio on The Wonder, remembered him as a sensitive soul with bright, beaming blue eyes. The actress, heartbroken over his demise, described him as an incredible person who was widely recognised for the work he did for women. She also highlighted how the late filmmaker dedicated much of his career to telling women's stories.
Sharing a picture with The Wonder director, Florence wrote in her Instagram post, "I've been processing this news since the day it happened; my brain is having a hard time accepting that this incredible man is no longer with us. Sebastián Lelio, what an absolute sparkling jewel you were. We met 5 years ago on The Wonder."
She stated that Sebastián was widely appreciated for his work championing women and described him as someone who always stood up for them. "He cared so deeply for women,' she said. She further remembered him as a sensitive soul whose bright blue, beaming eyes stared into one's soul even during the simplest conversations.
The actress revealed that while they had plenty to discuss about The Wonder's script, their shared love for food was what truly brought them closer. "Meat, stews, cheese, red wine. OH RED WINE, we both would scream. He would take me out for foodie dinners in Dublin to talk about the project, but we'd just be giddy over the chefs choices sent out. So it's not lost on me that right before I'd found out about his passing, I'd purchased a special cut of beef and a special red wine, almost as a preparation for his mourning," Florence added.
On a concluding note, Florence revealed Sebastián taught her the importance of dancing. Remembering him fondly, she described the late filmmaker as a gentle, patient, brilliant artist whose work made a meaningful difference. "This loss has really hurt my heart, and a big painful reminder that we don't have forever." She also extended her love and hugs to his family and friends, offering her heartfelt condolences.
