Maverick filmmaker David Lynch dies at 78: family statement

New York: David Lynch the groundbreaking director behind Mulholland Drive and Blue Velvet, who gained a cult following for his unsettling portr...

New York: David Lynch -- the groundbreaking director behind "Mulholland Drive" and "Blue Velvet," who gained a cult following for his unsettling portraits of American life -- has died. He was 78 years old.

"It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch," read a statement on his official Facebook page.

"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.'"