The Weeknd, Slash, Billy Corgan & More Mourn David Lynch’s Death

Beloved director and filmmaker David Lynch has died at the age of 78, and Hollywood is mourning one of its most visionary artists.

Lynch’s family announced the news of his passing via a Facebook post on Thursday (Jan. 16). “It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch,” the 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.”

Lynch’s death comes just five months after he announced he was diagnosed with emphysema from years of smoking.

The visual artist was best known for the television classic Twin Peaks, as well as films including Mulholland Drive and Blue Velvet, among others.

Following the news of his death, a number of celebrities took to social media to mourn Lynch and celebrate his works. “RIP #DavidLynch,” Slash wrote on Instagram alongside a black-and-white photo of the late star. “Everything is fine…,” The Weeknd wrote as a tribute to Lynch alongside a photo of the director on the set of Twin Peaks.

Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan, who contributed to the soundtrack for Lynch’s Lost Highway, wrote via Instagram, “Truly saddened to hear of the passing of David Lynch. Working with him was like a dream out of one of his movies, and I treasure the times I got to speak with him and hear first-hand his vision for a film. I truly encourage anyone who loves movies and television to watch all that David produced. He was a true artist, through and through.”

Questlove echoed the sentiment alongside a series of photos of himself with Lynch. “Lynch was the first human/creative that stressed the importance of not overworking and taking time out to breathe & meditate and searching for creative avenues not in my comfort zone (he was my guiding creative light for the Somethingtofoodabout book from 2016,” he wrote. “Took a liking to me always inviting me to his events and parties and really stressing the importance of self care. Thank you.”

Lynch’s cause of death has yet to be revealed.