Pee-wee Herman actor Paul Reubens dies aged 70 after six-year cancer battle
31.07.2023 - 20:11
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Pee-wee Herman actor Paul Reubens has died aged 70. In an official statement his representatives confirmed he "bravely and privately fought cancer for years".
Reubens' character of Pee-wee Herman first appeared in a stage show, and then on film in the Tim Burton movie Pee-wee's Big Adventure in 1985. He later revisited the role several times in related spin-offs.
The statement from his representatives, shared on Instagram, said: "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.
Read more: Paddy McGuinness shows off tanned torso during solo getaway as he's snapped with famous pals
"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 separate statement from Reubens said: "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."
Reubens' career started in the 1970s when he joined comedy troupe the Groundlings in Los Angeles. The Pee-wee Herman Show was launched in 1980 on stage.
However, Reubens became mired in a scandal in 1991 when he was arrested for indecent exposure at an adult movie theatre in Florida. In the early 2000s he also admitted a charge of obscenity linked to pictures from his photography collection.
Reuben