Paul Reubens, well known for playing Pee Wee Herman, passes away at the age of 70
Paul Reuben, an actor best remembered for his portrayal of the innocent Pee Wee Herman in the acclaimed Tim Burton film “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure,” has died at the age of 70.
On Instagram, the actor’s estate wrote: “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 actor passed away on Sunday from cancer.
“Paul heroically and secretly battled cancer for years with his characteristic humor and grit. He is a talented and prolific artist who will always have a special place in the comedy pantheon and in our hearts as a beloved friend and a guy of extraordinary character and generosity of spirit.
Additionally, Reubens wrote a public statement in which he expressed regret to his followers for keeping his illness a secret, saying, “Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years.”
“My friends, admirers, and supporters have always shown me a tremendous amount of love and respect. I have cherished creating art for everyone of you and have appreciated doing so.
He went on to feature in several Pee-Wee spin-offs such as ‘Big Adventures of Pee-Wee,’ a sequel to the original, and ‘Pee-wee’s Playhouse,’ which aired for five seasons from 1986 to 1990, after his enormous success with the 1985 Tim Burton picture.
Although the allegations against him for indecent exposure, molestation, and possession of child pornography were later dismissed, Reuben was still well-known for his improv comedy talents and for the many scandals that surrounded him. Since that time, he has remained a Hollywood star.
Reubens generally faded from the public eye following his arrest for indecent exposure in 1991, but he did continue to feature in a few low-budget movies. Reubens was essentially absent from the entertainment industry after that. He would, however, make a comeback later that year for the Pee-wee’s Big Holiday series.
