David Lynch, the iconic filmmaker known for his distinctively shadowy and surreal cinematic style in acclaimed works like “Blue Velvet,” “Mulholland Drive,” and the television phenomenon “Twin Peaks,” has passed away just days before he would have celebrated his 79th birthday.
His family shared the heartbreaking news via a Facebook update on Thursday, reflecting on their loss with poignant words: “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.’ It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way.”
The specific details surrounding Lynch’s death, including the cause and location, have yet to be disclosed. Last summer, he revealed to Sight and Sound that he had been diagnosed with emphysema, which confined him to his home due to fears of contracting illnesses like the coronavirus or even a simple cold.
“I’ve gotten emphysema from smoking for so long and so I’m homebound whether I like it or not,” Lynch said at the time, expressing doubts about his ability to create future films. “I would try to do it remotely, if it comes to it, but I wouldn’t like that so much.”
Lynch began his artistic journey as a painter, but gained prominence in the 1970s with the unconventional film “Eraserhead.” He consistently shocked and intrigued audiences, colleagues, and critics alike with his subsequent films. His distinguished works include the neo-noir narrative of “Mulholland Drive,” the darkly whimsical “Blue Velvet,” and the intriguing series “Twin Peaks,” which garnered three Golden Globes, two Emmys, and even a Grammy for its iconic theme music. Renowned film critic Pauline Kael praised Lynch as “the first populist surrealist — a Frank Capra of dream logic.”
Director Steven Spielberg paid tribute to Lynch, commenting on the impact of his work, noting that “Blue Velvet,” “Mulholland Drive,” and “The Elephant Man” showcased him as a distinctive and visionary filmmaker who produced works that felt uniquely crafted. Spielberg also highlighted Lynch’s role in his 2022 film, “The Fabelmans,” where he played the character of John Ford, a significant influence in his own career.
