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 significant 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 disclosed his emphysema diagnosis, a consequence of lifelong smoking, stating his inability to continue directing. He shared at the time: "Yes, I have emphysema from years of smoking. I enjoyed it immensely; I love tobacco – the scent, lighting it, 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 surreal neo-noir films. His debut feature, 1977's Eraserhead, achieved midnight movie success. 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 status.

Lynch's legacy is indelibly linked to the 1990s mystery series Twin Peaks, which chronicles 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 on social media. James Gunn, head of DCU, tweeted: "RIP David Lynch. A true inspiration to many." Joe Russo, screenwriter of several films, tweeted: "No one saw the world quite like David Lynch. Cinema has lost a master."