David Lynch Now Suffers From Emphysema

David Lynch, the iconic filmmaker known for his distinctive style, recently opened up about his health challenges, revealing that he has emphysema.

The 78-year-old director discussed his condition in an interview with Sight & Sound magazine, attributing it to “smoking for so long.” He explained, “I’m homebound whether I like it or not. I can’t go out. And I can only walk a short distance before I’m out of oxygen.” Lynch described smoking as something he “absolutely loved,” adding that it was intertwined with his creative process: “The tobacco and the smell of it, and lighting things and smoking and going back and sitting back and having a smoke and looking at your work, or thinking about things; nothing like it in this world is so beautiful.” However, he acknowledged, “Meanwhile, it’s killing me. So I had to quit.”

Lynch also expressed concern about the impact of COVID-19 on his health, noting that even a cold could be dangerous. Consequently, he mentioned that any future projects would need to be directed remotely from his home, although he prefers being on location to gather inspiration. “I like to be amongst the things and get ideas there. But I would try to do it remotely, if it comes to it,” Lynch stated.

Following the interview, Lynch clarified in a statement that he has no plans to retire despite his health issues. He wrote, “I have to say that I enjoyed smoking very much, and I do love tobacco… but there is a price to pay for this enjoyment, and the price for me is emphysema.” He emphasized that he has quit smoking for over two years and is otherwise in “excellent shape.” He reassured his fans, “I am filled with happiness, and I will never retire. I want you all to know that I really appreciate your concern.”

Lynch’s last significant project was the 2017 series Twin Peaks: The Return. He recently pitched an animated project called Snootworld to Netflix, but the streamer declined. He still harbors hopes of bringing his unproduced 2010 screenplay, Antelope Don’t Run No More, to life. Additionally, Lynch collaborated with Chrystabell on a new album, Cellophane Memories, which features several music videos directed by him.