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, the man and the artist. We request privacy during this time. His absence leaves a significant void, but as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole.’ It’s a beautiful day with radiant sunshine and clear blue skies.”
In 2024, Lynch publicly revealed an emphysema diagnosis stemming from years of smoking, stating his inability to continue directing. He shared at the time: "Yes, I have emphysema due to my long history of smoking. I must admit, I deeply enjoyed smoking, and I truly love tobacco – its aroma, the act of lighting a cigarette, the smoking itself – but there's a price to pay for this pleasure, and for me, that price is 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."
Lynch's legacy is perhaps most strongly tied to the early 1990s mystery drama series Twin Peaks, which follows 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 expressed their grief and paid tribute to Lynch on social media. James Gunn, head of DCU, tweeted: "RIP David Lynch. You inspired so many of us." Joe Russo, screenwriter of various films, tweeted: "No one perceived the world quite like David Lynch. The world lost a cinematic master today."
