Today, I’m taking a moment to remember a man who brought a whole lot of laughter and joy into my life. I’m talking about Paul Reubens, the man behind the iconic character Pee-Wee Herman. Sadly, Paul passed away recently at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and a little bit of silliness.
Who Was Paul Reubens?
Born in Peekskill, New York, and raised in Sarasota, Florida, Paul Reubens was a man who found his calling early in life. He was drawn to comedy and performance, a passion that he attributed in part to Sarasota being the winter home of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum Circus. From his first steps onto a stage in sixth grade, to leading his high school drama club, and then attending Boston University’s theatre department and the California Institute of the Arts, Paul was always destined for the spotlight.
The Birth of Pee-Wee Herman
After college, Paul created the character Pee-Wee Herman while he was a member of the famed Los Angeles improv group, The Groundlings. Pee-Wee was a quirky man-child, a character that was as endearing as he was hilarious. The character quickly gained popularity, and “The Pee-wee Herman Show” premiered at The Groundlings Theatre in 1981 before moving to The Roxy on Sunset Strip, where it ran for an unprecedented five months. The HBO broadcast of the show introduced the Pee-wee Herman character to a national audience.
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Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure
The character was later brought to the big screen in the 1985 comedy, “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure,” which Paul co-wrote. He went on to create, co-write and co-direct the series “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” on CBS, where the series earned 22 Emmy Awards during its run from 1986 to 1991. Paul was nominated for 14 Emmy Awards during his career, winning twice.
Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure
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The Legacy of Paul Reubens
Paul’s success as Pee-wee Herman also helped usher other actors into the spotlight on their road to fame. Some of his “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” co-stars included Laurence Fishburne, Natasha Lyonne, Jimmy Smits, Sandra Bernhard, and S. Epatha Merkerson.
Away from the cameras, Paul faced legal trouble over the years. He was arrested for indecent exposure in 1991 at a theater showing X-rated films, for which he later entered a plea of no contest. In 2002, Paul was charged with one misdemeanor count of possessing material depicting children engaged in sexual conduct, a charge that was later dropped with the actor pleading guilty to a charge of obscenity instead.
Despite these challenges, Paul continued to work in the industry, with recent acting credits including roles on “Gotham,” “What We Do In The Shadows,” “The Blacklist,” “Portlandia,” “30 Rock,” “Pushing Daisies,” “Reno 911,” and “Everybody Loves Raymond.”
Remembering Paul Reubens
Paul’s passing has left a void in the hearts of many. His friends and collaborators, including Natasha Lyonne, director Tim Burton, Jimmy Kimmel, and Conan O’Brien, have paid tribute to him. Director Adam Shankman wrote, “My heart is broken into a billion pieces. Then I looked at the text you sent me last week: a meme of a person in giant hair getting a pie in the face and I burst out laughing. Laughing and crying. This my friend says everything about you and what you gave the world.”
Paul Reubens may be gone, but Pee-Wee Herman, the character he brought to life, will continue to bring joy and laughter to generations to come. So, let’s remember Paul for the laughter he brought into our lives, the joy he spread, and the silliness he encouraged. After all, as Pee-Wee Herman would say, “I know you are, but what am I?”
As a child of the 80s, Pee-Wee Herman was a big part of my childhood. He managed to be earnest and silly at the same time. He even made my parents a little uncomfortable with all the talk about underpants, but they got over it. Pee-Wee Herman was a character that was larger than life, and Paul Reubens was the man who brought him to life. Today, I’m remembering Paul for the joy he brought into my life and the lives of so many others.
Pee-Wee Herman T-Shirt: A Must-Have Memorabilia
Celebrate Pee-Wee’s quirky humor with this iconic I Know You Are But What Am I T-Shirt. Perfect for all the Pee-Wee fans out there, this comfy tee can be worn all day or even used to sleep in! Get your hands on it today!
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Love Pee-Wee’s adventures? Then you’ll adore ‘Big Top Pee-Wee‘. Dive back into the whimsical world of your favorite quirky character. It’s a fun-filled ride that’s currently on a special offer you won’t regret!
Bring Home Pee-Wee as a Chia Pet
It’s all about the fun and nostalgia, y’all! Grow your own Pee-Wee Herman Chia Pet and relive the joy of our beloved clown prince. It’s an easy-to-grow reminder of Paul Reuben’s unforgettable character, just for you or as a gift for the biggest Pee-Wee fan you know!
Take a Trip Down Memory Lane with The Pee-wee Herman Show on Broadway
Let’s take it back to Broadway, Pee-wee style! Grab your bowtie, put on your wackiest suit and join us as we celebrate the man, the myth, the legend – Pee-wee Herman. This show is all about fun, laughter and a whole load of nostalgia. Get ready for a wild ride!
Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure Comes to Light With This Switch Plate Cover
Bring Pee-Wee’s iconic humor into your home with this Pee Wee’s Big Adventure Switch Plate Cover! Durable and distinct, this switch plate is a little piece of the ’80s that you didn’t know you needed. Grab it now while you still can!
Relive the Magic of Big Top Pee-Wee
Let’s celebrate the legend, the icon, the man – Pee-Wee Herman. Now you can own a piece of nostalgia with Big Top Pee-Wee. It’s a classic that never gets old. Just like Pee-Wee himself!
Pee-Wee Herman Movie Fridge Magnets: The Coolest Collection
Hey there, Pee-Wee fans! Check out this awesome Pee Wee Herman Big Adventure Movie Fridge Magnet Collection. Each set comes with six different designs, giving you plenty of options to personalize your fridge or locker. The best part? It’s Pee-Wee! Time to stick some fun on that fridge!
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Ever wanted to experience the magic that is Pee-wee Herman on the big stage? Now’s your chance! With The Pee-wee Herman Show on Broadway, you can relive all the laughs and joy that make Pee-wee so unforgettable. So why wait? Grab your ticket to this fun-filled show today!
Pee-Wee Herman Glossy Photo for Your Wall Art Collection
Looking for some unique wall art? Check out this Paul Reubens – Pee-wee Herman 8 x 10 glossy photo! It’s the perfect piece to show off your love for the iconic character. Plus, it’s shipped with total protection to ensure it arrives in perfect condition. Grab yours today!
Pee-Wee Herman Art Print Tin Sign to Light Up Your Space
How cool would it be to add a vintage touch to your room with the Pee-Wee Herman Art Print Tin Sign? Perfect for the living room, office or even your college dorm. Grab one today before they’re all gone!
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Add some nostalgia to your decor with this unique Pee-Wee Herman Art Print. It’s the perfect conversation starter, and an amazing way to pay tribute to the iconic Paul Reubens. This little gem won’t break the bank, but will definitely spark some smiles!