Pee-wee Herman Actor Paul Reubens Dead at Age 70

TV star Paul Reubens, best known for his work as Pee-wee Herman, has died at age 70. He died after a bout with cancer.

“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years,” a statement reads on Reubens’ Instagram page. “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.”

“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,” wrote Reubens’ estate in the caption. “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.”

Reubens joined Pee-wee’s Big Adventure in 1985.