Renowned filmmaker David Lynch, celebrated for his iconic works Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive, passed away at the age of 78.
His family shared the news via a Facebook post: “With profound sadness, we, his family, announce the passing of David Lynch, both the man and the artist. We kindly request privacy during this time. His absence leaves a significant void, but as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the donut, not the hole.’ It’s a beautiful day, bathed in golden sunshine and clear blue skies.”
In 2024, Lynch publicly revealed an emphysema diagnosis, a consequence of lifelong smoking, expressing his inability to continue directing. He stated then: "Yes, I have emphysema from my many years of smoking. I enjoyed smoking immensely, and I truly love tobacco – its scent, lighting cigarettes, the act of smoking – but there's a price to pay, and for me, it's emphysema. I've quit smoking for over two years now. Recent tests show I'm in excellent health aside from the emphysema. I'm filled with happiness, and I will never retire."
Born in Missoula, Montana, in 1946, Lynch achieved fame for his surreal, neo-noir mystery films. His debut feature, 1977's Eraserhead, became a midnight movie sensation. He garnered Academy Award nominations for Best Director for The Elephant Man (1980), Blue Velvet (1986), and Mulholland Drive (2001). His directorial credits also include Wild at Heart (1990) and the 1984 adaptation of Dune, the latter initially a box office disappointment but later gaining cult classic status.
Lynch's legacy is perhaps most strongly associated with the early 1990s mystery drama series Twin Peaks, chronicling FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper's investigation into the murder of Laura Palmer. Though initially canceled after two seasons, Lynch resurrected the series with the 2017 limited series Twin Peaks: The Return.
Hollywood figures, including directors, producers, and screenwriters, have expressed their condolences on social media. James Gunn, head of DCU, tweeted: "RIP David Lynch. You inspired so many of us." Joe Russo, screenwriter of several films, tweeted: "No one saw the world like David Lynch. The world lost a master of cinema today."
