Paul Reubens’ aka Pee-Wee Herman Died From Leukemia
Paul Reubens, best known for playing the legendary character Pee-wee Herman in TV series, movies, and on Broadway, died in June after suffering acute myelogenous leukemia and metastatic lung cancer, according to his death certificate.
The Blast was the first to report on the death certificate, which stated Ruebens died June 30 of “acute hypoxic respiratory failure,” which occurs when a person’s tissues do not have enough oxygen.
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Many people were surprised by Ruebens’ death because the actor had kept his cancer battle hidden for six years.
“Please accept my apologies for not going public with what I’ve been going through for the last six years,” he wrote on the day of his death in an Instagram statement. “I’ve always received a lot of love and respect from my friends, fans, and supporters.” I adored you all and had a great time creating 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,” the post’s caption reads.
Paul fought cancer heroically and privately for years, with his typical determination and wit. He will live in the comedy pantheon and in our hearts as a valued friend and guy of great character and generosity of spirit.”
Reubens was to be cremated and interred at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, according to the death certificate.
Pee-wee Herman is a fictional character created and portrayed by American actor and comedian Paul Reubens. The character made its debut in the late 1970s and gained widespread popularity through various stage shows, television programs, and movies.
Pee-wee Herman is known for his childlike and quirky personality, distinctive clothing (a tight gray suit, red bow tie, and red bicycle), and his unique way of speaking. The character often finds himself in humorous and absurd situations, and his adventures are typically filled with surreal and whimsical elements.
Here are some key points about Pee-wee Herman:
- The Pee-wee Herman Show: Pee-wee first appeared in a stage show called “The Pee-wee Herman Show” in 1980, which was later adapted into an HBO special in 1981. The show introduced many of the character’s iconic traits and catchphrases.
- Pee-wee’s Playhouse: Pee-wee Herman became a household name with the children’s television series “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” which ran from 1986 to 1990. The show featured a colorful cast of characters and was set in a wacky, interactive playhouse filled with talking furniture, animated objects, and various adventures.
- Pee-wee’s Big Adventure: In 1985, Paul Reubens and director Tim Burton collaborated on the film “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.” The movie follows Pee-wee as he embarks on a cross-country journey to recover his stolen bicycle. The film was a critical and commercial success and solidified Pee-wee’s status as a pop culture icon.
- Pee-wee’s Playhouse Christmas Special: This holiday special, which aired in 1988, remains a beloved classic among fans of Pee-wee Herman. It featured guest appearances by numerous celebrities.
- The Pee-wee Herman Movie: In 2016, Paul Reubens reprised his role as Pee-wee Herman in the Netflix film “Pee-wee’s Big Holiday,” marking a return to the character after many years.
Pee-wee Herman’s unique blend of humor and childlike wonder has endeared him to audiences of all ages, and he continues to have a dedicated fan base. Paul Reubens created a character that has left a lasting mark on popular culture.
