Lynch’s death leaves a profound void in the film industry, with his family sharing an emotional tribute, stating, "There's a big hole in the world now that he's no longer with us." They reminded admirers to embrace life’s beauty by quoting Lynch’s words, “Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole.” His struggles with emphysema, a consequence of years of smoking, were publicly known when he disclosed them in August.

Throughout his illustrious career, Lynch was recognized as a maverick director, garnering three Oscar nominations for Best Director for his films Blue Velvet, The Elephant Man, and Mulholland Drive. His last significant work, Twin Peaks: The Return, aired in 2017, reviving the iconic series from the early '90s. Lynch's film Wild at Heart earned him the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 1990.

Nicolas Cage, the star of Wild at Heart remarked that Lynch significantly influenced his passion for cinema, while Steven Spielberg lauded him as “a singular, visionary dreamer.” Every filmmaker expressed reverence for Lynch’s contributions, including Ron Howard, who called him a “gracious man and fearless artist.”

Moby, the musician who collaborated with Lynch, expressed his grief, stating that he was "just heartbroken." Lynch’s films are treasured for their dreamlike and surreal quality. His debut feature, Eraserhead, released in 1977, encapsulated his distinct style, filled with haunting imagery. Critics noted that while Eraserhead may not have been exceptional by today's standards, it was a strong introduction to his unique vision.

In a 2024 BBC interview, Lynch reminisced about his collaboration with composer Angelo Badalamenti, who crafted many of the soundscapes accompanying Lynch's work. Despite battling health issues, Lynch stated his intention to never retire from filmmaking, attributing his condition to his long-term smoking habit.

Born in Missoula, Montana, Lynch began his artistic journey as a painter before turning to filmmaking in the 1960s. His cinematic legacy will endure, and he is remembered not just for his notable films but for his innovative approach to storytelling and visual art.