Pee-wee Herman actor Paul Reubens dies
US actor Paul Reubens, who came to fame in the 1980s as children’s TV star Pee-wee Herman, has died.
The 70-year-old died overnight after a six-year battle with cancer, his team said on Monday.
A statement describing Reubens as an “iconic American actor, comedian, writer and producer” was posted to his Facebook account.
It 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.
“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.”
In an additional post on his Instagram page, the actor is quoted apologising for “not going public with what I’ve been facing over the last six years”.
Instagram This content is provided by Instagram, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options. Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
“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,” he was quoted saying.
Reubens rose to fame in the 1980s playing the whimsical, child-like character on TV and in movies. He wore a grey suit and red bow tie while delighting children with his distinctive ‘heh heh heh’ laugh.