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: "It is with deep sorrow that we, his family, announce the passing of David Lynch, both 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, bathed in golden sunshine and clear blue skies."

In 2024, Lynch publicly revealed his emphysema diagnosis, a consequence of lifelong smoking, and expressed his inability to continue directing. He stated then: "Yes, I have emphysema from years of smoking. I enjoyed smoking immensely; I love tobacco—the aroma, the act of lighting a cigarette, 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 aside from the emphysema. I'm filled with happiness and will never retire."

Born in Missoula, Montana, in 1946, Lynch's career was defined by surreal, neo-noir mystery films. His directorial debut, 1977's Eraserhead, achieved midnight movie success. He garnered 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, the latter initially a box office disappointment but later gaining cult classic status.

Lynch's legacy is most strongly associated with the early 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.

Tributes poured in from across Hollywood, with filmmakers and actors sharing their condolences on social media. James Gunn, head of DCU, tweeted: "RIP David Lynch. You inspired so many of us." Joe Russo, screenwriter of various films, noted: "No one saw the world like David Lynch. The world lost a master of cinema today."