Paul Reubens, the iconic actor and comedian who played Pee-wee Herman, has died at the age of 70.
The official Pee-wee Herman Facebook and Instagram pages made posts confirming his passing and revealing that Reubens had privately battled cancer for the last six years.
“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 caption states. “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 a touching prepared statement from Reubens himself, which says:
“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.”
Reubens was well-known for playing the character of Pee-wee Herman, who debuted in Reubens’ stage shows and went on to star in films and television series like 1985’s Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, the TV show Pee-wee’s Playhouse, 1988’s Big Top Pee-wee, and 2016’s Pee-wee’s Big Holiday.
Outside of playing Pee-wee, Reubens appeared in movies like Batman Returns, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and The Smurfs series, alongside television shows like 30 Rock, Batman: The Brave and the Bold, Tron: Uprising, Legends of Tomorrow, and more.
We Own The Laughs sends condolences to Reubens’ family and friends at this time.
