The cause of David Lynch’s death has been confirmed. Nearly a month after the legendary Twin Peaks director passed away at age 78, his death certificate from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health revealed he died from cardiac arrest due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The report was first shared by TMZ and later confirmed by The Independent.
On top of that, dehydration was listed as a significant contributing factor, according to the redacted document released on Friday, February 7. A representative for Lynch has not yet responded to requests for confirmation.
Lynch’s passing was announced on January 16 in a statement from his family on social media.
“It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch. 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,” the family added.
Lynch was known for his unique, surreal storytelling, often described as “Lynchian”. He created Twin Peaks (1990), along with films like The Elephant Man, Blue Velvet, and Mulholland Drive. He also wrote books, including Catching the Big Fish and Room to Dream, and directed music videos for Moby, Nine Inch Nails, and Donovan. In 2022, he played director John Ford in Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans.
Many of Lynch’s longtime collaborators mourned his passing. Twin Peaks star Kyle MacLachlan, who worked with Lynch on Dune and Blue Velvet, shared a heartfelt tribute.
“He plucked me out of obscurity to star in his first and last big-budget movie. He clearly saw something in me that even I didn’t recognize. I owe my entire career, and life really, to his vision.”
MacLachlan described Lynch as “a dear friend” who changed his life.
“He was in touch with something the rest of us wish we could get to. I will miss him more than words can express. My world is that much fuller because I knew him and that much emptier now that he’s gone.”
Lynch’s passing marks the loss of one of cinema’s most influential and imaginative directors. His legacy, however, will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers, artists, and storytellers.
