It was the news fans thought perhaps too good to be true – Twin Peaks back for a belated third season. Now a statement from David Lynch has just confirmed their worst fears. Following rumours contract negotiations weren’t going well, it’s emerged the bequiffed auteur will sadly not direct the revival.
Originally set for release in 2016, the new limited series was trumpeted by Lynch and co-creator Mark Frost on Twitter to a rapturous reception. Producers Showtime even brought out star Kyle MacLachlan in costume as legendary character Agent Cooper at the Television Critics Association earlier this year to promote the bizarre but much-anticipated brand.
Concerns over budget have been identified as the cause of Lynch’s departure. Recent remarks suggested he was becoming reticent over final talks, and with rumours circulating via WonderCon about the comeback being in jeopardy, he’s taken to social media to clarify matters once and for all:
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… ‘Twin Peaks’ may still be very much alive at Showtime. I love the world of Twin Peaks and wish things could have worked out differently.
Showtime have responded, clearly caught off-guard by the announcement:
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…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.
Though Lynch has offered some hope the broadcaster may continue without him, they appear not to share his sentiment. He is one half of the equation, but his distinctive visual style and sound design was essential in making the show stand out from the crowd. Despite the self-penned scripts (written with Frost) being completed and the possibility of another director being brought in, it’s a big gamble proceeding without him.
The original series focused on the death of local beauty Laura Palmer and the ensuing investigation. If it had been up to Lynch the identity of her murderer would never have been revealed. The ABC network however had other plans and forced him to unveil the killer during the second season, after which ratings dropped and cancellation soon followed. Lynch lost interest and his resulting absence from the set was keenly felt, a warning sign to future producers if ever there was one.
At least aficionados have Frost’s upcoming The Secret Lives Of Twin Peaks book to tide them over. Reportedly covering the twenty-five year gap between seasons (now to be a longer if not indefinite period), this is apparently getting released at Christmas. A welcome stocking filler for the disappointed “Peakies” who are facing up to the fact their favourite programme may never be coming back.
Source: Variety
