Paul Reubens, known for his famous character “Pee-Wee Herman,” reportedly passed away at the age of 70 in Los Angeles, California, on July 30.
According to the reports, Reubens had been battling cancer for six years, and he privately fought the disease without sharing it publicly.
Before he passed, he wrote a message to his fans, apologizing for keeping his illness a secret and expressing his love and appreciation for their support.
“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing for 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,” Reuben said.
Born as “Paul Rubenfeld” in New York in 1952, he grew up in Sarasota, Florida. He began his entertainment career in 1977 and became widely known for hosting “The Pee-Wee Herman Show” from 1981 to 1984.
Paul Reubens wrote a message before he passed away last night. pic.twitter.com/FH8E8M4AI3— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) July 31, 2023
In 1985, he made the kid-friendly movie “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure,” followed by the successful television show “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” which won 15 Emmys.
Moreover, in 1991, Reubens faced a personal challenge when he was arrested in Sarasota at an adult movie theater. He later pled no contest to avoid a trial, and this incident caused him to temporarily retire his Pee-Wee alter ego. However, despite this setback, he continued his acting and comedy career, occasionally performing as Pee-Wee.
Paul Reubens’ death deeply saddened Hollywood stars. Jimmy Kimmel described him as a brilliant and original comedian who made both kids and parents laugh.
“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,” Kimmel said.
Saturday Night Live even posted a skit featuring Reubens as Pee-Wee Herman, while filmmaker Paul Feig expressed his devastation at the loss.
“This is devastating. Truly heartbreaking. Paul was such a comedy genius.” Feig said in an Instagram post, adding that “this is a huge loss for comedy.”
