David Lynch, an influential director known for his unique and surrealistic films and TV shows including “Blue Velvet” and “Twin Peaks,” has died. He was 78.

Lynch was born in Missoula, Mont., in 1946 and grew up in Spokane, Wash., and Boise, Idaho. His father was a forest research scientist, and Lynch spent much of his childhood outside, exploring. Those same mysterious Pacific Northwest woods would eventually inspire Twin Peaks.

Writer-filmmaker David Lynch, whose whose works include Mulholland Drive and Twin Peaks, has died at the age of 78. His family announced his death on Facebook.

Lynch's distinct voice across projects like "Blue Velvet," "Eraserhead," and "Lost Highway" made him one of the defining American filmmakers of the 20th century.

Oscar-nominated director David Lynch, best known for films such as “Blue Velvet” and “The Elephant Man” and the quirky television drama “Twin Peaks,” has died at age 78. His family announced his death on social media, saying “It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch.”

Though the officially presentation will happen in February, the 'Mulholland Drive' and 'Blue Velvet' writer-director was able to accept the prize in late 2024, before his death on Jan. 16.