David Lynch, Director of Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive, Dies at 78
- By Lucy
- Apr 27,2025
David Lynch, the visionary director known for his surreal and neo-noir mystery films, has passed away at the age of 78. The announcement came from his family 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 consequence of his long history with smoking. Despite this, he expressed a positive outlook on life, 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."
Born in Missoula, Montana, in 1946, Lynch gained fame with his debut feature, "Eraserhead" (1977), which became a cult classic. He received 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 iconic contribution to television was the early 90s series "Twin Peaks," which chronicled FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper's (played by Kyle MacLachlan) investigation into the murder of Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee). Although the show was canceled after two seasons, it was successfully revived with the 2017 limited series "Twin Peaks: The Return."
Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in from the film community. DCU chief James Gunn tweeted: "RIP David Lynch. You inspired so many of us." Screenwriter Joe Russo, known for "The Inheritance," "Soul Mates," and "The Au Pair Nightmare," also paid homage, saying, "no one saw the world like David Lynch. The world lost a master of cinema today."
