Paul Reubens, the comedian/actor most famously known as Pee-wee Herman, has died. He was 70.
In a statement posted to his social media accounts, it was revealed the actor died after a long battle with cancer.
“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. 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.”
On Instagram, Reuben’s team shared a posthumous post from the actor, apologizing to his fans for not revealing his illness.
“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 wrote.
The actor, who began his career as a comedian as part of the L.A.-based improv group The Groundlings in the 1970s, rose to national fame in the 1980s with the live-action children’s TV series “Pee-wee’s Playhouse.” The character moved to the big screen in 1985 with the Tim Burton film “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.”
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Comedian and late-night talkshow host Jimmy Fallon took to social media on Monday to pay tribute to Reubens:
Paul Reubens was like no one else - a brilliant and original comedian who made kids and their parents laugh at the same time. He never forgot a birthday and shared his genuine delight for silliness with everyone he met. My family and I will miss him.
— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) July 31, 2023
Conan O’Brien also used social media to express great sadness over Reubens’ passing.
No tweet can capture the magic, generosity, artistry, and devout silliness of Paul Reubens. Everyone I know received countless nonsensical memes from Paul on their birthday, and I mean EVERYONE. His surreal comedy and unrelenting kindness were a gift to us all. Damn, this hurts.
— Conan O'Brien (@ConanOBrien) July 31, 2023
