Visionary director David Lynch passed away on Thursday at the age of 78. Known for crafting films that explore dark and surreal themes, Lynch's work includes the homoerotic 1984 adaptation of the sci-fi epic Dune and the 2001 lesbian noir Mulholland Drive. However, it was his beloved drama series Twin Peaks that popularized the slogan, "Fix your hearts or die!" This phrase has since become a powerful cry for trans empowerment and a defiant stance against bigotry.
In 1991, during the second season of the groundbreaking TV drama series Twin Peaks, Lynch featured cisgender actor David Duchovny as transgender FBI Agent Denise Bryson. Bryson's character was one of the first trans women portrayed on TV during a time of scarce LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.
Denise Bryson's Impact
The main character of the series, FBI special agent Dale Cooper, initially expresses surprise at Bryson's appearance, having known her before her transition. Nonetheless, Cooper treats her with respect, despite the local sheriff's department's jokes about her unexpected appearance and stylish attire.
Portrayed as heroic, Denise Bryson helps clear Cooper's name when he is suspended by the FBI on drug trafficking charges. In a dramatic turn, Bryson infiltrates a farmhouse under the guise of a waitress, revealing a hidden revolver that Cooper uses to escape his captors.
In 2017, Lynch brought Bryson back for the third season of Twin Peaks: The Return. By this time, Bryson had become the FBI's chief of staff. During a conversation with FBI Deputy Director Gordon Cole, played by Lynch himself, Cole recalls supporting Bryson through her transition.
"Before you were Denise, and you were Dennis, and I was your boss," Cole remarks, "I had enough dirt on you to fill the Grand Canyon, but I never used a spoonful because you were and are a great agent. And when you became Denise, I told all of your colleagues, those clown comics, to fix their hearts or die."
Bryson acknowledges Cole's unwavering support, approving an operation to retrieve Cooper from a South Dakota prison after a 25-year absence.
The Slogan's Legacy
While Bryson's portrayal isn't without its critiques—such as the initial recognition of her trans identity during a sting operation and the stereotype of trans women as being deceptive—the phrase "Fix your hearts or die" has become an enduring slogan for trans empowerment.
This motto has appeared on social media posts celebrating Lynch's contribution to LGBTQ+ representation. It has been used on badges to raise funds for the National Center for Transgender Equality and resonates with many as a defiant rallying cry against prejudice.
In a 2020 essay, trans British horror writer Alison Rumfitt reflected on the phrase's significance, stating, "Is there any better phrase to say to a bigot than fix your hearts or die?" Trans writer Lex McMenamin echoed this sentiment, writing that the line serves as a "trans rallying cry" during times when legislative actions threaten the trans community.
Trans people have embraced the slogan as a reminder to confront transphobia and bigotry: "For a just outcome, we eventually have to tell some people to either get with the program or go to hell," McMenamin added.
Remembering David Lynch
In a tribute to Lynch, trans director Jane Schoenbrun, known for the 2024 film I Saw the TV Glow, praised Lynch's work: "He was the first to show me another world, a beautiful one of love and danger I sensed but had never seen outside sleep. Thank you, David, your gift will reverberate for the rest of my life."
Lynch's films, such as his debut feature Eraserhead and the 1986 thriller Blue Velvet, continue to influence audiences with their blend of beauty and terror. His passing leaves a significant impact on the film industry and the LGBTQ+ community.
While the details surrounding Lynch's death remain private, he reportedly suffered from emphysema and recently fled Los Angeles due to wildfires. He is survived by four children. Lynch's legacy endures through his ground-breaking work and the empowering message of "Fix your hearts or die!"
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