David Lynch Exits Showtime’s Twin Peaks Reboot

The X-Files. Ash Vs. Evil Dead. Twin Peaks. These three beloved franchises have all been earmarked for small screen revivals in the last year. This trio are positioned amongst many, MANY other reboots, sequels and spinoffs building upon previously-existing properties for brand new TV shows set to hit our screens shortly. Alas, now it seems as though the latter series, currently in the pipeline at Showtime, has lost a key ingredient: David Lynch.

Rumors of Lynch’s difficulties with the network surfaced recently, with the filmmaker citing “complications” as a reason why his involvement was uncertain. Both he and co-creator Mark Frost, who delighted audiences in the late 80s and early 90s with the deliciously-twisted series, were previously said to be in the driver’s seat for season 3. Unfortunately, it’s now transpired that financial difficulties have caused Lynch to jump ship from the limited series, which is still thought to be in development.

Here’s what the legendary helmer had to say on the matter when he took to Twitter to confirm the dreaded news:

Dear Twitter Friends, Showtime did not pull the plug on Twin Peaks.

— David Lynch (@DAVID_LYNCH) April 5, 2015

After 1 year and 4 months of negotiations, I left because not enough money was offered to do the script the way I felt it needed to be done.

— David Lynch (@DAVID_LYNCH) April 5, 2015

This weekend I started to call actors to let them know I would not be directing. Twin Peaks may still be very much alive at Showtime.

— David Lynch (@DAVID_LYNCH) April 5, 2015

I love the world of Twin Peaks and wish things could have worked out differently.

— David Lynch (@DAVID_LYNCH) April 5, 2015

Shortly thereafter, Showtime issued a follow-up statement:

“We were saddened to read David Lynch’s statement today since we believed we were working towards solutions with David and his reps on the few remaining deal points. SHOWTIME also loves the world of Twin Peaks and we continue to hold out hope that we can bring it back in all its glory with both of its extraordinary creators, David Lynch and Mark Frost, at its helm.”

If the network can reconcile with the director’s demands for additional time and financial remuneration, this would likely serve them much better in the long run due to the cache of having Lynch’s name attached.

The original show ran for two seasons until its cancellation in 1991. And while credited with creating the Northwestern mystery, Lynch did in fact only direct five episodes. Its success is still widely attributed to his unique eye for the bizarre, leaving many of us wondering how Showtime could ever continue Twin Peaks without his input. His departure might not be permanent, though, and that’s no doubt a factor that returning star Kyle Maclachan will likely weigh up when it comes to inking his contract.