David Lynch, director of 'Blue Velvet' and 'Twin Peaks,' dies at 78

David Lynch, the Oscar-nominated director of films including "Eraserhead," "Blue Velvet" and "Mulholland Drive," and co-creator of the cult drama series "Twin Peaks," has died. He was 78.

"It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch," a statement on his official Facebook account said. "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 donut and not on the hole.'"

The statement added, "It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way."

The then-78-year-old filmmaker revealed in August 2024 that he had developed emphysema after years of smoking. "I'm homebound whether I like it or not," Lynch told Sight and Sound magazine. "I can't go out. And I can only walk a short distance before I'm out of oxygen."

Lynch added in a social media post at the time that he was "in excellent shape" otherwise, declaring, "I am filled with happiness, and I will never retire."