David Lynch, Director of Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive, Dies at 78

David Lynch, the iconic filmmaker renowned for his surreal and neo-noir works such as "Twin Peaks" and "Mulholland Drive," has passed away at the age of 78. His family shared the somber news via a heartfelt post on Facebook:

"It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch. We would appreciate some privacy at this time. There’s a big hole in the world now that he’s no longer with us. But, as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole.’ It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way."

In 2024, Lynch revealed his battle with emphysema, a condition stemming from his long history of smoking. Despite his health challenges, he remained positive, stating:

"Yes, I have emphysema from my many years of smoking. I have to say that I enjoyed smoking very much, and I do love tobacco — the smell of it, lighting cigarettes on fire, smoking them — but there is a price to pay for this enjoyment, and the price for me is emphysema. I have now quit smoking for over two years. Recently I had many tests and the good news is that I am in excellent shape except for emphysema. I am filled with happiness, and I will never retire."

David Lynch has died aged 78. Photo by Michael Buckner/Variety/Penske Media via Getty Images.

Born in Missoula, Montana, in 1946, Lynch made a significant impact on cinema with his debut feature film, "Eraserhead" (1977), which became a cult classic. His talents were recognized with Academy Award nominations for Best Director for "The Elephant Man" (1980), "Blue Velvet" (1986), and "Mulholland Drive" (2001). Other notable works include "Wild at Heart" (1990) and the 1984 adaptation of "Dune," which, despite its initial commercial failure, later achieved cult status.

Lynch's most celebrated creation, the mystery drama series "Twin Peaks," captivated audiences in the early 90s. The show, centered around FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper's (played by Kyle MacLachlan) investigation into the murder of Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee), was canceled after two seasons but was later revived in 2017 with "Twin Peaks: The Return."

Following the announcement of his passing, the film industry mourned the loss of a visionary. DCU chief James Gunn expressed his condolences on Twitter, saying, "RIP David Lynch. You inspired so many of us." Joe Russo, the screenwriter behind "The Inheritance," "Soul Mates," and "The Au Pair Nightmare," also paid tribute, noting, "no one saw the world like David Lynch. The world lost a master of cinema today."