Legendary Hollywood director dies at age 78
Hollywood director David Lynch, who was known for directing iconic films such as Mulholland Drive and Twin Peaks, has passed away at the age of 78.
Lynch’s family confirmed his passing on social media early on Friday morning with an emotional statement that reads, “It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch.”
“We would appreciate some privacy at this time."
“There’s a big hole in the world now that he’s no longer with us. But, as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the doughnut and not on the hole’,” Lynch’s family added.
“It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way.”
Lynch's family did not confirm his cause of death.
In 2020, the acclaimed writer and director was diagnosed with emphysema, a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
After being a heavy smoker all his life, Lynch revealed in November 2024 that he needed supplemental oxygen to go on a walk.
“What you sow is what you reap,” Lynch told People magazine. “In the back of every smoker’s mind is the fact that it’s healthy, so you’re literally playing with fire. It can bite you. I took a chance, and I got bit.”
Lynch's filmmaking career began in the 1960s, although his first feature film was Eraserhead in 1977.
His next film was 1980’s The Elephant Man, which was nominated for eight Oscars — including Best Director for Lynch.
He followed up The Elephant Man with 1984’s Dune, 1986’s Blue Velvet, 1990’s Wild At Heart and 2001’s Mulholland Drive.
Lynch also created the hit TV series Twin Peaks in 1990, as well as the 1992 movie prequel and 2017 reboot season.
During his stellar career, Lynch was nominated for four Oscars and nine Emmy Awards. He won the César Award for Best Foreign Film twice and the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival once.
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