Paul Reubens, Pee-Wee Herman Star, Dead At 70

Publish date: 2024-05-05

When his death was announced, Reuben's team included a pre-written statement from Reubens, explaining his decision to keep his condition private. 

"Please accept my apology for not going public with what I've been facing for the last six years," said Reubens' statement, which was written just one day before his death (via Instagram). "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." Reuben's team also presented the actor's final request. "Paul asked that any expressions of sympathy be made in his 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," continued the statement.

News of Reuben's death has led his fans to mourn his loss of life and the fond memories they have of his work. "Another piece of my childhood gone. rip to legend pee-wee," tweeted one fan. Another user tweeted screenshots of Reuben in various roles. They captioned the collage, "REST IN PEACE TO PAUL REUBENS AKA PEE WEE HERMAN this f***ing SUCKS."

Dozens of celebrities mourned the loss of Paul Reubens, many of who guest-starred with him at some point in his long career. Cher said goodbye on her Twitter account, quoting a line from Shakespeare's "Hamlet." Conan O'Brien remembered Paul Reubens for his "magic, generosity, artistry, and devout silliness." Actor Natasha Lyonne, who appeared on "Pee-wee's Playhouse" as a child said in part, "Thank you for my career."

However, Reuben's shady past left a stain on his legacy.

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