Paul Reubens, Pee-wee Herman Actor, Dead at 70 After Private Cancer Battle

etonline.com:

Paul Reubens has died. The actor, known for his Pee-wee Herman character, died on Sunday after a private battle with cancer, according to a statement released on Instagram.

He was 70.«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 statement read.«Paul bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit,» the statement continued. «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.»The Instagram post also included a quote from Reubens himself.«Please accept my apology for not going public with what I've been facing the last six years,» Reuben's statement read. «I have always felt a huge amount of love and respect from friends, fans and supporters.

I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you.»The post additionally revealed that Reubens asked that any expressions of sympathy be made in honor of his late parents, Judy and Milton Rubenfeld, to Stand Up to Cancer or organizations involved in Dementia and Alzheimer's care, support and research.A post shared by Pee-wee Herman (@peeweeherman)Reubens, who was born in Peekskill, New York, started his career in the 1970s when he joined the Los Angeles troupe The Groundlings.