The 78-year-old filmmaker was first diagnosed with emphysema in 2000 David Lynch Needs Supplemental Oxygen, Is Permanently Homebound Due to Emphysema

It complicates his directing job, but Lynch doesn’t plan to stop working. He stated on X in August that he’d “never retire,” amidst reports that his condition meant he wouldn’t be directing any more. However, Lynch told the People he’d consider directing remotely, as his disease makes him more susceptible to respiratory illnesses.

Legendary filmmaker David Lynch said he uses a supplemental oxygen tank now because of emphysema caused by decades of smoking. The “Blue Velvet” director revealed in August he was suffering from emphysema that was diagnosed in 2020.

Acclaimed director David Lynch started smoking at age 8 and now relies on supplemental oxygen for anything more strenuous than a walk across a room, he said in an interview with People, warning people of the dangers of smoking.