David Lynch can no longer direct due to emphysema—impact explained
Renowned filmmaker David Lynch, famed for his work on Twin Peaks and Eraserhead, has disclosed that he is suffering from emphysema. The 78-year-old director shared this health update in the September issue of Sight and Sound magazine. Taking to X/Twitter on Tuesday, Lynch attributed his condition to long-term smoking, which has rendered him homebound and limited his mobility due to oxygen deprivation. What is emphysema and what are its implications? Let's understand.
Understanding the medical jargon: emphysema
Per the Mayo Clinic, emphysema is a chronic lung disease where the air sacs in your lungs are damaged, making breathing difficult. This damage reduces the lung's surface area for oxygen exchange, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing, and fatigue. While it often worsens over time, treatments can manage symptoms and slow progression. Smoking is a primary cause, but genetics and environmental factors also play a role.
'I have to say that I enjoyed smoking very much...'
During the interview, Lynch explained that his emphysema makes him particularly vulnerable to respiratory infections, including COVID-19 and the common cold. The director stated, "I can't go out. And I can only walk a short distance before I'm out of oxygen." In his X post, he further shared, "I have to say that I enjoyed smoking very much...but there is a price to pay for this...the price for me is emphysema." "I have now quit smoking for over two years."
'I will never retire,' Lynch asserted upon receiving the diagnosis
Despite his health condition, Lynch is determined to continue his filmmaking career. He has expressed that future directing will need to be conducted from home, stating he would attempt remote directing "if it comes to it," even though he is not fond of the idea. The director reassured fans of his unwavering commitment by stating: "I am filled with happiness, and I will never retire."
Lynch's illustrious career and ongoing projects
Lynch, known for directing films like Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and the 1984 version of Dune, has had a remarkable career in filmmaking. His last feature film was Inland Empire, released in 2006. In 2017, he revived the TV series Twin Peaks for a follow-up on Showtime titled Twin Peaks: The Return. Despite health concerns, Lynch remains optimistic about his future projects, including an animated movie pitch to Netflix and a screenplay from 2010.
