Renowned filmmaker David Lynch passed away on January 16 at the age of 78. The cause of death, as reported by sources, was cardiac arrest, a result of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Dehydration was also noted as a significant factor contributing to his demise. The news of his death was confirmed by his family through a statement on social media.
The family’s statement read, “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.” They also added, “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.”
In the week leading up to his death, Lynch had to evacuate his Los Angeles home due to the deadly wildfires. His producer, Sabrina Sutherland, confirmed his safety at the time. Lynch, who was diagnosed with emphysema, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, in 2020, had been using supplemental oxygen since November 2024.
Lynch, known for his work on the series “Twin Peaks” and films like “Dune,” “Blue Velvet,” and “Mulholland Drive,” had been open about his health struggles. He had started smoking at the age of 8 and quit in 2022. In an interview last year, he mentioned that he was homebound due to his condition, stating, “it would be very bad for me to get sick, even with a cold.”
Following his death, numerous celebrities paid tribute to Lynch on social media. Among them was Kyle MacLachlan, who starred in “Dune,” “Blue Velvet,” and “Twin Peaks.” MacLachlan wrote, “Our friendship blossomed on Blue Velvet and then Twin Peaks and I always found him to be the most authentically alive person I’d ever met. While the world has lost a remarkable artist, I’ve lost a dear friend who imagined a future for me and allowed me to travel in worlds I could never have conceived on my own.”
Naomi Watts, who starred in “Mulholland Drive,” also remembered Lynch in a heartfelt Instagram post. She wrote, “My heart is broken. My Buddy Dave… The world will not be the same without him. I was lucky to have known Lynch and his exquisite storytelling, which elevated cinema and inspired generations of filmmakers across the globe.”