Yakima’s own Kyle MacLachlan is making headlines again—this time for a heartfelt homecoming and a moving tribute to his legendary collaborator, David Lynch. The Golden Globe-winning actor, best known for his iconic role as Agent Dale Cooper in Twin Peaks, kicked off the 2025-2026 Yakima Town Hall season with a packed appearance at the Capital Theater, drawing thunderous applause from locals eager to celebrate one of their own.
A Hero’s Welcome in Yakima
MacLachlan’s return to his roots was more than just a nostalgic trip. He reflected on the city’s growth since his childhood, sharing personal stories about his formative years at Eisenhower High School. He credited choir director Gary Baisinger as a pivotal influence in his early acting journey, saying,
“Gary was really an important part of my journey when I was here.” The actor’s genuine affection for his hometown shone through as he accepted an Eisenhower t-shirt and reminisced over his old yearbook with student reporters.
New Creative Ventures: Podcasting with Gen-Z
Never one to rest on his laurels, MacLachlan has recently launched a podcast titled
What Are We Even Doing, where he sits down with Gen-Z creatives to discuss the evolving entertainment industry. He describes the show as a series of candid conversations rather than formal interviews, driven by his curiosity about young talent and their creative processes.
“I just have a curiosity about young creatives,” MacLachlan explained, highlighting his passion for bridging generational gaps in Hollywood.
Honoring David Lynch: A Lasting Legacy
2025 has also been a year of reflection for MacLachlan, following the passing of director David Lynch. At a recent BFI Southbank screening of the
Twin Peaks pilot, MacLachlan shared behind-the-scenes stories and revealed how Lynch’s creative freedom shaped the show’s early days. He spoke about their unique working relationship, recalling Lynch’s enigmatic guidance and the “constant dialogue” that made their collaborations so special.
MacLachlan’s tribute to Lynch was deeply personal. He promised to return for future screenings celebrating Lynch’s work, emphasizing the importance of preserving his friend’s memory and artistic legacy.
“It’s such a pleasure to get back in front of the camera with David as my director,” MacLachlan said, drawing another round of applause from fans and industry insiders alike.
What’s Next for MacLachlan?
With a career spanning decades—from
Dune and
Blue Velvet to recent roles in
Inside Out 2 and Amazon’s
Fallout series—MacLachlan continues to reinvent himself. His latest projects show a willingness to embrace new media and mentor the next generation, all while honoring the creative giants who shaped his path.
Key Takeaways
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Kyle MacLachlan’s return to Yakima was a celebration of his roots and a testament to the city’s impact on his career.
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His new podcast aims to connect with Gen-Z creatives and explore the changing landscape of entertainment.
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MacLachlan’s tributes to David Lynch highlight the enduring influence of their collaborations and the importance of preserving artistic legacies.
As MacLachlan looks forward to new creative adventures, fans can expect more candid conversations, heartfelt tributes, and perhaps a few surprises from one of Hollywood’s most enduring talents.
Sources
1. Kyle MacLachlan makes return to Yakima as Town Hall ...
2. Kyle MacLachlan
3. Recap from BFI Screening of 'Twin Peaks' Pilot with Kyle ...
4. “Twin Peaks” star Kyle MacLachlan pays tribute to late ...
5. Kyle MacLachlan Reminisces about David Lynch
6. Millennials share regrets to help others learn from them - GOOD
7. “Silencio”: hearing loss in David Lynch's Mulholland Drive
8. Twin Peaks (TV Series 1990–1991) - News
