ACTOR Paul Reubens, best known for his work as the character Pee-wee Herman, has died at age 70 following a battle with cancer.
Reubens died on Sunday evening, his estate revealed on social media on Monday.
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“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 read.
“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.”
A statement from Reubens detailing his cancer battle was released on his Instagram page after the news of his death was announced.
“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years,” the actor wrote.
“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 began his comedic career by performing at local comedy clubs during the 1970s.
He soon joined the Los Angeles-based comedy troupe The Groundlings as an improv comedian and stage actor, working alongside the likes of Bob McClurg, John Paragon, Susan Barnes, and Phil Hartman.
His iconic character, Pee-wee Herman, was first introduced at The Groundlings Theatre in February 1981.
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Soon after, the character became the center of the 1985 hit film Pee-wee’s Big Adventures.
The film was an instant success, as Reubens returned three years later with the follow-up film, Big Top Pee-wee.
By 1986, the character transitioned to television airing on CBS’ weekend morning show, Pee-wee’s Playhouse.
The series earned 22 Emmy Awards during its run from 1986 to 1991 -Reubens was nominated for 14 Emmy Awards throughout his career, winning twice.
The infectious quirkiness of Reubens’ character boomed in popularity by 1988 with the creation of the Pee-wee Herman franchise, consisting of toys, clothing, and other items.
“It’s for kids,” Reubens told The Associated Press in 2010 about his loveable character.
“People have tried to get me for years to go, ‘It wasn’t really for kids, right?’ Even the original show was for kids. I always censored myself to have it be kid-friendly.
“The whole thing has been just a gut feeling from the beginning.
“That’s all it ever is, and I think always ever be. Much as people want me to dissect it and explain it, I can’t. One, I don’t know, and two, I don’t want to know, and three, I feel like I’ll hex myself if I know.”
However, Reubens’ image as a childhood hero came crumbling down in July 1991 when he was arrested for indecent exposure at an adult movie theater in Florida.
Although Pee-wee Herman Playhouse had long ended when Reubens was arrested, CBS decided to cancel the show’s reruns when the news of his arrest was reported.
Throughout the 1990s, Reubens kept a low profile, appearing in minor roles in various films, including Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Matilda, Dunston Checks, Blow, and Batman Returns.
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