Paul Reubens, Known As Pee-Wee Herman, Dead At 70

Actor Paul Reubens, who became known for his role as Pee-wee Herman, died at age 70. And a statement on social media revealed that Paul had privately battled cancer for years. However, Reubens also explained in a post published after his death why he hid his diagnosis.

Find out about actor Paul Reubens’ life. And learn what he shared about hiding his diagnosis of cancer. Get all the details below.

Paul Reubens Dead At 70

In the 1980’s, actor Paul Reubens became known as children’s TV star Pee-wee Herman. And after a career including writing as well as producing, Reubens died at 70. “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,” according to a statement from his team via NBC News.

But Paul’s team also shared that the actor hid his diagnosis of cancer for some time. And his reps wrote on his Facebook page, “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.”

Known for the children’s TV show “Pee Wee’s Playhouse” on CBS starring Reubens, Paul also revealed in the announcement of his death his reason for hiding his medical struggle. “Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years,” he shared. “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.”

Paul Reubens, the actor best known for portraying Pee-wee Herman, died Sunday night after a private bout of cancer. He was 70. https://t.co/7PFd6jlzHp pic.twitter.com/2nI5LMhG7u

— Variety (@Variety) July 31, 2023

Paul Reubens Became Known As Pee-Wee Herman

Sporting a red bow-tie and known for sarcastic comments such as “I know you are, but what am I?” as Pee-wee Herman, Reubens got his big break in the film “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure.” And the movie’s success resulted in Reubens getting his Saturday morning CBS show, “Pee-Wee’s Playhouse.” However, the actor’s soaring fame stopped in 1991 with his no-contest plea to indecent exposure at an adult movie theater in Sarasota, Florida.

But the actor made his comeback with a cameo as the Penguin’s father in the 1992 film sequel, “Batman Returns.” And Paul later portrayed a blood-sucker in the “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” film. A role as a drug-dealing hairdresser in the film “Blow” with Johnny Depp also added to his credentials as an actor. And Reubens starred on TV shows as well, including “30 Rock,” “The Blacklist” and “Gotham.”

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Late night comedian Jimmy Kimmel praised Paul as “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.” And comedian and podcaster Conan O’Brien honored “the magic, generosity, artistry, and devout silliness of Paul Reubens.” 

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