Iconic Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive Director Dies

Renowned filmmaker David Lynch, celebrated for his surrealist masterpieces Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive, passed away at age 78.

His family shared the sad news via a Facebook post: “With profound sorrow, we, his family, announce the passing of David Lynch, both the man and the artist. We request privacy during this difficult time. His absence leaves a void, but as he’d 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 at the time: "Yes, I have emphysema from years of smoking. I enjoyed it immensely; I love tobacco – the scent, the lighting, the act of smoking – but there's a price, and for me, it's emphysema. I've quit for over two years. Recent tests show I'm in excellent health aside from the emphysema. I'm filled with happiness, and I'll never retire."

Born in Missoula, Montana in 1946, Lynch gained fame for his distinctive neo-noir, surrealist films. His debut feature, 1977's Eraserhead, achieved cult midnight movie status. He received 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 achieving cult classic recognition.

Lynch's legacy is indelibly linked to the iconic 1990s mystery 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 expressed their grief and paid tribute 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."