How David Lynch Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

How the contributions of David Lynch continue to shape the world today.

David Lynch is a highly acclaimed American filmmaker, visual artist, musician, and actor known for his surrealist and experimental films. Often considered a visionary, Lynch's career spans over five decades, during which he has received numerous awards, including the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement and an Academy Honorary Award. He is widely recognized as one of the greatest filmmakers of all time.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

2007: Recognition as an Important Filmmaker

In 2007, The Guardian declared David Lynch the most important film-maker of the current era.

2013: Lynch's Quote on Transcendental Meditation

In 2013, David Lynch wrote about Transcendental Meditation leading to a "beautiful, peaceful revolution."

2016: Mulholland Drive Named Best Film

In 2016, the film Mulholland Drive was named the best film of the 21st century in a BBC poll of 177 film critics from 36 countries, solidifying its legacy.

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2017: The Edward MacDowell Medal

In 2017, The MacDowell Colony awarded David Lynch The Edward MacDowell Medal for his outstanding contributions to American culture.

2018: Frames Described as Beautiful

In his 2018 memoir Room to Dream, David Lynch described some frames from the music video for X Japan's song "Longing ~Setsubou no Yoru~", which he collaborated on in 1993, as fuckin' beautiful.

2019: Interview on the Benefits of Transcendental Meditation

In a 2019 interview by British artist Alexander de Cadenet, David Lynch discussed the benefits of Transcendental Meditation, saying it utilizes the full brain.

February 2025: Public Report of Death Certificate

In February 2025, David Lynch's death certificate was publicly reported, citing cardiac arrest due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and dehydration as contributors, and that he was cremated with ashes buried at Hollywood Forever Cemetery.