Paul Reubens, the actor, and comedian best known for his roles as Pee-wee Herman and Paul Lynde, died on Monday, July 31, 2023, at his home in Los Angeles. He was 70 years old.
Reubens’ death was confirmed by his manager, Lynn Kernohan. The cause of death was cancer.
Reubens was born in 1952 in Peekskill, New York. He began his career as a stand-up comedian in the early 1970s. In 1981, he created the character of Pee-wee Herman, a man-child with a taste for magic tricks and breakfast foods.
Pee-wee Herman first appeared on the sketch comedy show “Saturday Night Live.” He later starred in his own television show, “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” which ran from 1986 to 1991.
Reubens also starred in several films, including “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” (1985) and “Big Top Pee-wee” (1988). He also appeared in the films “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” (1992) and “The Wedding Singer” (1998).
Reubens was a popular and beloved figure, and his death was met with sadness by fans and colleagues alike. He will be remembered for his unique and eccentric humor, as well as his commitment to making people laugh.
In a statement, Kernohan said, “Paul Reubens was a true original. He was an incredible artist and performer, and his work touched the lives of millions of people around the world. He will be deeply missed.”
A private funeral service will be held for Reubens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Paul Reubens Foundation, which supports arts education for children.