Fans' Hearts Are Breaking for Horror Master Guillermo del Toro in the Wake of a Devastating Personal Loss

Fans are rallying behind master of horror Guillermo del Toroafter the loss of the legendary director’s brother, which he revealed during the Palm Springs Film Awards on Saturday, Jan. 3, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

del Toro was honored with the Visionary Award at this year’s event for his work on Frankenstein, just three days after his family’s tragic loss. He didn’t share any details about his brother, keeping his identity and his cause of death private, but he told attendees that there were parallels between the film and his life with his brother, which contributed to his choice to still attend the ceremony.

“I’m here because the film speaks about a condition that is purely human; that is proved by the final phase in the film, which says the heart may break and the broken live on,” he said. “Even a broken heart pumps the blood and keeps you going.”

He continued, “My brother and I played Victor and the creature on many moments in our lives, [and] many years ago, we granted each other love and granted each other peace. So I’m here for family.”

Fans Wish They Could Hug the Beloved Film Director

As the outlet posted the news to social media, fans began tagging the director’s personal account with supportive messages.

“Sending you big hugs,” one wrote, while another agreed, “oh guillermo 😞 wish i could hug you.”

“I’m so sorry for your loss,” someone else said.

Another commenter replied, “I pray you have a new year full of many blessings and boundless peace.”

“Sending my deepest regards and so much love,” another reply read. “My heart breaks for you!”

The Director Is Taking a Step Back From This Year’s Award Circuit

Before he wrapped his speech, del Toro also warned fans that he “may be absent at a few functions this [awards] season,” but couldn’t miss this one for his film family. For his heartfelt conclusion, he said, “Life gives you a family on the way.”

Frankenstein stars Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi and Mia Goth, all three of whom were present on stage with him, as they were also awarded with the honor for the first time ever. According to the awards’ website, the Visionary Award “honors a film that breaks boundaries in the art of cinema, and this year marks the first time the accolade will be presented jointly to a director and his cast—recognizing their remarkable collaboration in bringing this cinematic vision to life.”

Related: Guillermo del Toro Surprises Fans With His Candid Outlook on Death: ‘I’m a Big Fan’