Pee-Wee Herman Actor Paul Reubens Passes Away at 70 After a Private Battle with Cancer

Paul Reubens, who is best known for playing Pee-wee Herman over the years, passed away this past Sunday after a private battle with cancer. He was 70 years old. Ugh, this one hurts.

A message that Reubens previously wrote was shared on social media today, 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 and supporters. I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you.”

The post’s caption, written by his estate, 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.”

This is so sad to hear because I was such a huge fan of his films! I grew up watching his movies! I’ve recently been prepping to record an episode of our Secret Level podcast for Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure, which is one of my all-time favorites, and I’ve been watching his films again recently. It’s just so shocking to learn that he’s died.

I hate cancer. I’ve had to watch my mom battle through it twice over the past several years and it’s something she continues to fight. So, whenever I see someone pass away from cancer, my heart just sinks. It’s rough to hear.

Paul Reubens left behind an amazing legacy of entertainment that we can always go back and revisit and those things he made will always offer great laughs! Our hearts go out to his family and friends. We’re gonna miss you, Pee-Wee!