Paul Reubens, best known for his portrayal and creation of Pee-wee Herman, reportedly died Sunday at the age of 70.

The announcement was made Monday through Reubens’ Facebook page, noting a longtime 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,” the post said. “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.”

paul reubens cover

Paul Reubens on the January 15, 2010 cover of L.A. Weekly. (Photo by Kevin Scanlon for L.A. Weekly)

Reubens had been battling cancer for six years, according to the post, which included a prepared message from the actor, apologizing for keeping his diagnosis from the public.

“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years,” Reubens said in the posthumous message. “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.”


Through the “Pee-wee Herman Show,” “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” and “Pee-Wee’s Playhouse,” Reubens portrayed the character from 1981-1991. In 2010, Reubens resurrected the “Pee-wee Herman Show,” doing shows at Club Nokia in Los Angeles.

After the announcement of his passing, the entertainment world paid their respects and shared their stories of Reubens.

David Hasselhoff

“Paul Reubens was a great, great friend. He gave me the muppets for my birthday and never forgot anyone’s birthday from our class. He was in my class at CalArts and roommates! He was always kind to me and to everyone. He will be missed.”

Michael Des Barres

“Paul Reubens was a one in a lifetime artist. Creating himself as Pee-wee Herman. He made children laugh, and adults smile. There has never been, and will never be an artist like him a deep intellect and clown. Your best friend, and a dear friend of my family. RIP.”

Ricki Lake

“Paul Reubens was my friend for almost 3 decades. I am in disbelief that he is gone. Beyond grateful for all the memories and the countless laughs.”

The Muppets

“We absolutely loved Paul Reubens! Whether he was delighting audiences as the iconic Pee-wee Herman or being given the “Honorary Muppet Award” in Muppet Magazine in 1987, he brought a burst of joy, creativity, and laughter everywhere he went.”

Holly Robinson Peete

“This is just absolutely crushing. I loved Paul, a.k.a. Pee-wee Herman so much. My brother, mother and I have known him for decades. He always brightened my day with messages of support and love and laughter. I completely respect his decision to keep this cancer private. It just breaks my heart not to be able to say goodbye. I love you, Paul what an awesome life. Thank you for Everything!! You were a GIANT.”

Corey Feldman

“We just spent my birthday texting each other back n forth all day! He never indicated he was even sick! A genius, groundbreaking comedian.”

Jimmy Kimmel

“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.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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