Actor and comedian Paul Reubens, known for his portrayal of children’s TV star Pee-wee Herman, lost his life to cancer on 30 July at the age of 70.
According to a statement posted on his Facebook account, Reubens “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,” it added.
The statement included a personal apology from Reubens on why he had kept his cancer diagnosis private.
“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,” he said.
Reubens started his career in 1970 as part of the Los Angeles live comedy troupe Groundlings. He launched The Pee-wee Herman Show in 1980. The beloved children’s character was known for his white chunky loafers, red bow tie and the catchphrase “I know you are but what am I.”
In 1991, Reubens was arrested for indecent exposure at an adult movie theater in Sarasota, Florida, a controversy that dealt a major blow to his career.
He reprised the iconic children’s role on Broadway in 2010.
Variety reports that before his death, Reubens was working on two Pee-wee Herman projects, the black comedy The Pee-wee Herman Story and the family adventure film Pee-wee’s Playhouse: The Movie.