Steven Spielberg, James Gunn, Patton Oswalt, and more Hollywood icons are paying tribute to David Lynch.
On Thursday, January 16, 2025, Lynch’s family announced that the legendary filmmaker had passed away at age 78. He was known for creating the popular television series Twin Peaks alongside Mark Frost, while he also directed many beloved films such as 1977’s Eraserhead, 1986’s Blue Velvet, 1997’s Lost Highway, 2001’s Mulholland Drive, and more.
“It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch,” the family’s statement reads. “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.’ It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way.”
What did Steven Spielberg say about David Lynch?
Per Variety, Spielberg said in a statement regarding Lynch’s passing, “I loved David’s films. Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and Elephant Man defined him as a singular, visionary dreamer who directed films that felt handmade. I got to know David when he played John Ford in The Fabelmans. Here was one of my heroes—David Lynch playing one of my heroes. It was surreal and seemed like a scene out of one of David’s own movies. The world is going to miss such an original and unique voice. His films have already stood the test of time and they always will.”
James Gunn said, “RIP David Lynch. You inspired so many of us,” while Oswalt wrote on X, “David Lynch, RIP. At least that’s what the horse wearing a fez just told me* in a dream. (*Backwards and in Swedish).”
Nicolas Cage told Deadline, “He was brave, brilliant, and a maverick with a joyful sense of humor. I never had more fun on a film set than working with David Lynch. He will always be solid gold.”
Others such as Ron Howard, Kumail Nanjiani, Melanie Lynskey, and many more have also shared tributes to Lynch following his passing.
ComingSoon extends its condolences to Lynch’s family and friends at this time.
