Paul Reubens, , Pee-wee Herman Actor, , Dead at 70.
Reubens' death was announcement by
his team on July 31, NBC News reports.
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 Reubens' team, via statement.
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, Paul Reubens' team, via statement.
Reubens also left a written personal statement apologizing for keeping his cancer diagnosis private. .
Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years, Pee-wee Herman, via written statement.
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, Pee-wee Herman, via written statement.
Reubens rose to fame playing the character
of Pee-wee Herman in the '80s and '90s.
But in 1991, things took a turn for the actor after pleading "no contest to indecent exposure at an adult movie theater," NBC News reports.
Still, in 2001, Reubens won critical acclaim for his role in 'Blow,' starring Penelope Cruz and Johnny Depp.
In 2004, Reubens "pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor obscenity charge" related to pictures of minors engaged in sexual activity, NBC News reports. .
Other TV credits include '30 Rock,'
'The Blacklist' and 'Gotham.'.
Paul Reubens was like no one else —
a brilliant and original comedian who made kids and their parents laugh at the same time, Jimmy Kimmel, via statement
