Entertainment

Director David Lynch Passes Away at 78

Published JAN 17 2025

Story

Above: Director David Lynch pictured in 2017. Image credit: Prima Barol/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images

The Facts

American film director David Lynch died at age 78, his family confirmed in a Facebook post on Thursday.
guardian
"There's a big hole in the world now that he's no longer with us," the post read. "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."
Facebook
Born in Missoula, Montana, on Jan. 20, 1946, Lynch was the son of a Department of Agriculture researcher and spent his early years moving from state to state with his two siblings.
BBC News
After attending art school, Lynch began making short films in the late 1960s before releasing "Eraserhead," his first feature-length movie, in 1977. That led to the recommendation that he work alongside Mel Brooks to make "Elephant Man," which earned Lynch eight Oscar nominations — including best director and best picture.
Sky News
BBC News
He went on to make "Blue Velvet," earning him another Oscar nomination for best director, "Wild at Heart," which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, and "Mulholland Drive." He also directed the highly acclaimed TV series "Twin Peaks."
BBC News
While the cause of his death remains unknown, Lynch was reportedly diagnosed with emphysema in August last year.
guardian

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The Spin

Narrative A

Lynch was a visionary filmmaker and artist whose kindness, combined with his heart and fearlessness, inspired countless others who came after him. His passing is a monumental loss and he will be sorely missed.

The Hollywood Reporter

Narrative B

While embracing the weird and surreal — creating works that blended the mundane with adventure, danger, and eroticism — Lynch captivated audiences worldwide. He was a singular artist and there will not be another like him.