Paul Reubens, the actor and comedian best known for his creation of the character Pee-wee Herman, died on Tuesday at the age of 70. Reubens’ death was confirmed by his manager, Jeff Pollack.
Reubens was born in 1952 in Peekskill, New York. He began his career as a stand-up comedian in the early 1970s, and his Pee-wee Herman character first appeared in a series of short films in 1977. Pee-wee Herman was a child-like man with a distinctive voice and a penchant for bow ties and suspenders. He quickly became a cult favorite, and his character was featured in a variety of television shows and films, including the 1981 movie “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” and the 1987 movie “Pee-wee’s Playhouse.”
Reubens’ career was briefly derailed in 1991, when he was arrested for indecent exposure in an adult theater in Florida. However, he was able to rebuild his career, and he continued to perform as Pee-wee Herman in various stage shows and television specials.
Reubens was a talented actor and comedian, and his creation of Pee-wee Herman was a true original. He will be remembered as one of the most iconic figures in American pop culture.
In addition to his work as Pee-wee Herman, Reubens also appeared in a number of other films and television shows, including:
- “The Benny Hill Show” (1979)
- “Mork & Mindy” (1979)
- “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” (1979-1986)
- “The Paul Reiser Show” (1991)
- “The Larry Sanders Show” (1993)
- “30 Rock” (2010)
Reubens was also a successful voice actor, and he provided the voices for characters in a number of animated films and television shows, including:**
- “The Simpsons” (1992-1993)
- “King of the Hill” (1997-2009)
- “Robot Chicken” (2005-2018)
Reubens’ death is a sad loss for the world of entertainment. He was a talented actor and comedian, and his work will continue to be enjoyed by fans for many years to come.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Paul Reubens Foundation, which supports arts education programs for children.