Iconic film and television director David Lynch has died.
His family announced his death in a Facebook post on Friday (NZT).
"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'."
He previously revealed he suffered from emphysema after many years of smoking.
He was 78.
Lynch, an auteur director known for surrealistic and idiosyncratic style has been a major presence in film and a fan favourite since his 1977 independent horror Eraserhead.
However, he was probably best known for his work on films Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive and television show Twin Peaks.
His 1980 filmThe Elephant Man was nominated for eight Oscars.
More to come...
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