David Lynch Dead - 'Blue Velvet,' 'Twin Peaks' & 'Mulholland Drive' Director Dies at 78

David Lynch has sadly died.

The iconic director, who provided classics like Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive and TV’s Twin Peaks, has died at the age of 78.

Last year, David confirmed he was diagnosed with emphysema after a lifetime of smoking, and would likely not be able to leave his house or ever direct again.

His family announced his death in a Facebook post.

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“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’” they wrote.

David began his career as a painter and short animated and live action filmmaker before his 1977 feature debut Eraserhead, quickly garnering him acclaim and a cult following.

He wrote and directed The Elephant Man, which garnered eight Academy Award nominations, including his first for best director.

David also helmed the 1984 adaptation of Dune, as well as Wild at Heart, which was honored with the Cannes Film Festival’s Palme d’Or.

After the success of his TV series Twin Peaks came 1992′s Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me, followed by limited-run Season 3 for Showtime.

He was acknowledged with a special award for his career at the 2007 Independent Spirit Awards, and a Golden Lion at the 2006 Venice Film Festival.

David was married four times. He is survived by two daughters and two sons. Our thoughts are with David Lynch‘s loved ones at this difficult time.