According to Deadline, Paul Reubens (Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, The Pee-wee Herman Show) has been in an ongoing battle with cancer for the past six years, unfortunately, the cancer won this battle. Ruebens was born as Paul Rubenfeld in Peekskill, New York. Reubens is survived by sister Abby and her wife Helia, brother Luke and nieces Lily and Sarah.
In an Instagram post, Reubens made a statement saying, “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 a supporters. I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you.”
The post was created by Reubens’ estate and the caption reads, “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.” Check out the post below.
Reubens got his big break as a part of The Groundlings in the ’70s. He began in small parts within big films such as The Blues Brothers Movie, where Reubens played a waiter. He also starred as a hotel clerk in Cheech and Chong’s Next Movie.
In 1982, Paul Reubens became the iconic character of Pee-wee Herman he was characterized by the tight gray suit, red bowtie and white t-shirt.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Reubens was also a voice actor on some huge projects, such as The Nightmare Before Christmas, Smurfs and Family Guy.
Actress Natasha Lyonne (Poker Face, Orange is the New Black), who made her television debut alongside Reubens in Pee-wee’s Playhouse at the mere age of six. Lyonne wrote in her tribute, “love you so much, Paul. One in all time. Thank you for my career & your forever friendship all these years & for teaching us what a true original is.”
On Instagram, Tim Burton (Big Eyes, Dark Shadows) posted an image of himself and Reubens saying that he is “shocked and saddened.” Burton continues with, “I’ll never forget how Paul helped me at the beginning of my career. It would not have happened without his support. He was a great artist. I’ll miss him.”
Rest in peace, Paul Reubens. You will be greatly missed.