Paul Reubens, actor who portrayed Pee-wee Herman, dies after private battle with cancer

WASHINGTON (TND) — Actor Paul Reubens, who rose to fame during the 1980s for his portrayal of the character Pee-wee Herman in television shows and movies, has died.

He passed away at the age of 70 after a private battle with cancer.

Please accept my apology for not going public with what I've been facing the last six years," Reubens said in a statement released with the announcement of his death, which was posted on social media Monday. "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 social media post noted Reubens died on Sunday.

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 post on the official Pee-wee Herman Facebook page.

Paul bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit," the post noted. "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."

The post also noted Reubens "asked that any expressions of sympathy be made in honor of his late parents, Judy and Milton Rubenfield, to Stand Up to Cancer or organizations involved in Dementia and Alzheimer's care, support and research."

Reubens starred in the popular show, "Pee-wee's Playhouse," as well as the film, "Pee-wee's Big Adventure," and the sequel, “Big Top Pee-wee." He also had roles in movies such as "Blow" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."

Reubens also had a few run-ins with the law.

In July 1991, he was arrested for indecent exposure in an adult theater in Florida. Ten years later, he was charged with misdemeanor possession of child pornography after police seized images from his computer and photography collection, but the allegation was reduced to an obscenity charge and he was given three years probation.

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EDITOR'S NOTE: The Associated Press contributed to this report.