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 age 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 kindly 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, sunny and blue.”

In 2024, Lynch publicly revealed an emphysema diagnosis stemming from years of smoking, stating his inability to continue directing. He shared then: "Yes, I have emphysema from smoking. I enjoyed it immensely, I love tobacco – the scent, lighting it, smoking it – but there's a price. I quit over two years ago. Recent tests show I'm in excellent health aside from the emphysema. I'm happy, and I'll never retire."

Lynch's legacy is inextricably linked to the iconic 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.

Hollywood figures expressed their grief and paid tribute on social media. James Gunn, head of DCU, tweeted: "RIP David Lynch. A true inspiration to so many." Joe Russo, screenwriter of several films, tweeted: "No one saw the world like David Lynch. Cinema has lost a master."