Direct/indirect object

Question

Hello, I don’t understand why it is “le ayudó” rather than “lo ayudó” in the final sentence. To me, it is saying she helped him, so “him” is a direct object which would suggest “lo”.   Thanks for your help.  Tony

Accepted Answer

Hola Tony
It is indeed a direct object pronoun and this is normally "lo", however, the pronoun "le" is also accepted as a direct object pronoun when it refers to a masculine singular person (not feminine). In certain parts of Spain this use of "le" as "lo" is quite common and the R.A.E accepts it. You can read some information about "leísmo" here. I hope it helps.
Saludos
Inma

Answer

Sorry, I meant he helped him, not she helped him.