Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive Director David Lynch Dies Aged 78

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 void, but as he’d say, ‘Keep your eye on the donut, not 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 from years of smoking. I enjoyed smoking immensely, and I love tobacco – the smell, lighting it, smoking it – 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 except for the emphysema. I'm happy, and I'll never retire."

Born in Missoula, Montana in 1946, Lynch's career was defined by his surreal, neo-noir mystery films. His directorial debut, 1977's Eraserhead, achieved midnight movie status. He received Academy Award nominations for Best Director for The Elephant Man (1980), Blue Velvet (1986), and Mulholland Drive (2001). His filmography also includes Wild at Heart (1990) and the 1984 adaptation of Dune, which initially underperformed but later gained cult classic status.

Lynch's legacy is inextricably linked to the groundbreaking 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, the series was revived in 2017 with 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."