Paul Reubens, Pee-wee Herman actor, dead at 70 after private cancer battle
Actor Paul Reubens, best known for his portrayal as ’80s television character Pee-wee Herman, has died years after he was diagnosed with cancer. He was 70.
His team confirmed the passing Monday, in a statement posted to Facebook.
“Last night we said farewell to Paul Reubens, an iconic American actor, comedian, writer and producer whose beloved character Pee-wee Herman delighted generations of children and adults with his positivity, whimsy and belief in the importance of kindness,” the statement reads.
“Paul bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit. A gifted and prolific talent, he will forever live in the comedy pantheon and in our hearts as a treasured friend and man of remarkable character and generosity of spirit.”
The post also included an undated quote attributed to Reubens, thanking fans for their support:
“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years. I have always felt a huge amount of love and respect from my friends, fans and supporters. I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you,” the quote says.
Reubens was the creator and star of the 1986 to 1990 TV series Pee-wee’s Playhouse. His character, with his too-tight gray suit, white chunky loafers and red bow tie, would become instantly recognizable for generations of kids and adults.
It was a role he would reprise over the years, including a 2010 live Broadway instalment of The Pee-wee Herman Show, as well as the 2016 Netflix movie Pee-wee’s Big Holiday.
Herman created Pee-wee when he was part of the Los Angeles improv group The Groundlings in the late 1970s. The live Pee-wee Herman Show debuted at a Los Angeles theater in 1981 and was a success with both
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