Hollywood is mourning the loss of the legendary filmmaker David Lynch, who passed away Thursday at 78. Tributes from stars like Steven Spielberg, Ron Howard, and more have poured in, celebrating the director’s indelible impact on cinema.
Spielberg shared a heartfelt message, recalling how Lynch’s films such as “Blue Velvet,” “Mulholland Drive,” and “Elephant Man” were “singular” and “handmade.” Spielberg also reflected on Lynch’s role in “The Fabelmans” playing John Ford, a surreal moment for Spielberg who admired both Lynch and Ford. “The world is going to miss such an original and unique voice,” Spielberg said.
The loss comes after Lynch’s revelation last year about his emphysema diagnosis, which was expected to limit his ability to direct. His family shared the sad news on Facebook, quoting Lynch’s famous words: “Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole.”
Ron Howard also paid tribute, calling Lynch “a gracious man and fearless artist,” while James Gunn and Patton Oswalt expressed their admiration for Lynch’s surrealistic genius. “Thank you, David,” wrote Jane Schoenbrun, “your gift will reverberate for the rest of my life.”
Lynch, a graduate of the American Film Institute, made a lasting mark with both his films and his art. AFI honored him, recalling his time spent filming “Eraserhead” in the Greystone stables, where his advice to young filmmakers echoed his own creative philosophy: “Tell the stories that are inside you.”
Known for his dark and surrealistic style, Lynch created iconic works like “Twin Peaks,” “Lost Highway,” and “Inland Empire.” A three-time Academy Award nominee, Lynch was also an actor, musician, and champion of transcendental meditation, establishing the David Lynch Foundation in 2005.
His passing marks the end of an era for cinema, leaving behind a profound legacy that will continue to inspire filmmakers for generations.
