He expanded the cinematic potential of television and inspired a generation of showrunners, including “Sopranos” creator David Chase.

David Lynch, whose death was announced Thursday, composed music for many of his films, collaborated with others

Director David Lynch, known for the surreal TV series Twin Peaks and films such as Eraserhead and Blue Velvet, has died aged 78. A post on his official Facebook page read: “It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch.