Actor Paul Reubens, best known as Pee-wee Herman on children’s television in the 1980s, died years after being diagnosed with cancer, his team said Monday. 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,” according to a statement posted to his Facebook.
“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.”
Reubens became mired in controversy when he was arrested in 1991 for indecent exposure at an adult movie theater. Three days after that his show, Pee Wee’s Playhouse was canceled. He pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor obscenity charge and was placed on probation after a plea bargain in which prosecutors dropped more serious charges of child pornography. However, a decade later, he was arrested again, this time charged with possession of child pornography.
These arrests effectively ended his career.