Director David Lynch has issued a statement regarding reports that he would be forced to retire due to health issues.
In a post on X, Lynch said that he does have emphysema from smoking throughout the years, and that although he does enjoy smoking, he’s had to quit. Lynch noted that he is now in “excellent shape” despite having emphysema, and “will never retire.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen, Yes, I have emphysema from my many years of smoking,” said Lynch. “I have to say that I enjoyed smoking very much, and I do love tobacco – the smell of it, lighting cigarettes on fire, smoking them – but there is a price to pay for this enjoyment, and the price for me is emphysema. I have now quit smoking for over two years.
“Recently I had many tests and the good news is that I am in excellent shape except for emphysema. I am filled with happiness, and I will never retire. I want you all to know that I really appreciate your concern. Love, David”
What were the reports on David Lynch’s retirement?
Reports about the director having to retire began popping up early on Monday, following an interview Lynch did with Sight & Sound Magazine. In the talk, Lynch said that he was diagnosed with emphysema due to smoking, and that he was mostly homebound due to it as a result. Lynch also said that as a result, if he had to direct a movie, it would have to be remotely, as he doesn’t want to get sick and runs out of breath shortly easier than most.
“I’ve gotten emphysema from smoking for so long and so I’m homebound whether I like it or not. It would be very bad for me to get sick, even with a cold,” Lynch said.
Lynch’s directorial career is legendary, with the filmmaker being the man behind Eraserhead, The Elephant Man, Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and 1984’s Dune. Lynch is also the creator of the Twin Peaks franchise.
