New Delhi: David Lynch, the filmmaker who made Twin Peaks, Mulholland Drive and propagated his own unique brand of surrealist thriller-horror, has died. He was 78.
His family announced his death shortly before his 79th birthday.
“It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch,” the statement said.
“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 donut and not on the hole.'”
Reports have noted that the cause of his death is yet unknown, but Variety has reported that Lynch revealed in 2024 that he had been diagnosed with emphysema.
Lynch, a modern day auteur, was best known for films like Blue Velvet and Mulholland Drive, and the enduring television series Twin Peaks.
In 2019, he received an honorary Academy Award for his lifetime achievements. He had earlier earned four Oscar nominations, three of which were for best director.
His Wild at Heart is the winner of the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
Steven Spielberg paid tribute to Lynch, describing him as a “singular, visionary dreamer who directed films that felt handmade,” the Hollywood director said in a statement.
“The world is going to miss such an original and unique voice. His films have already stood the test of time and they always will,” Spielberg said.
