Paul Reubens, known for his many roles in film, television, and stage, has passed away at the age of 70.
A statement from Reubens released through his publicist revealed the actor’s six-year battle with cancer:
“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years. 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.”
The actor’s family released a statement via Instagram highlighting his “trademark tenacity and wit” in handling the battle.
Reubens starred in many projects over the span of his career, but is perhaps best known for the childlike Pee-wee Herman, originally created during Reubens’s tenure in the comedy troupe The Groundlings and featured prominently in his own stage show, television series, and feature-length films such as Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.
The character would make appearances on several outside projects as well, including an appearance as guest host on the November 1, 2010 edition of RAW, an appearance earning Reubens a Slammy Award, and appearing at WrestleMania 27 in a backstage segment with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and “Mean Gene” Okerlund.
We here at Wrestleview offer our condolences to the friends, family, and fans of Paul Reubens at this time.