Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive Director David Lynch Dies Aged 78

Renowned filmmaker David Lynch, celebrated for his visionary work on 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, 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 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 due to years of smoking. I must admit, I greatly enjoyed smoking, and I truly love tobacco—its aroma, lighting cigarettes, the act of smoking—but there's a price to pay, and for me, it's emphysema. I've quit smoking for over two years now. Recent tests show I'm in excellent health aside from the emphysema. I'm filled with happiness and will never retire."

David Lynch has died aged 78. Photo by Michael Buckner/Variety/Penske Media via Getty Images.

Born in Missoula, Montana, in 1946, Lynch gained recognition 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 classic status.

Lynch's legacy is perhaps most strongly associated with the early 1990s mystery drama 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 expressing their grief on social media. James Gunn, head of DCU, tweeted: "RIP David Lynch. You inspired countless individuals." Joe Russo, screenwriter of several films, tweeted: "No one perceived the world quite like David Lynch. Cinema has lost a true master."