David Lynch admits he can ‘barely walk’ as he battles lung disease

In his own words, Lynch expressed mixed feelings about his smoking habit, taking to smelling it, lighting cigarettes in the fire, smoking it – but there is a price to be paid for this pleasure, and the price for me is emphysema.

“I’ve stopped smoking for over two years now. I’ve had a lot of tests recently and the good news is that, apart from emphysema, I’m in great shape.

“I want you all to know that I really appreciate your concern.”

Despite his health problems, the filmmaker has not completely ruled out the possibility of directing again in the future.

In an August interview with Image & SoundLynch said: “I like to be around things and get ideas from there. But I would try to do it from a distance, if it comes down to it.”