Paul Reubens, beloved children’s entertainer who played Pee-wee Herman, died on Sunday after “bravely and privately” fighting cancer.
The 70-year-old released a posthumous statement via Instagram Monday, apologizing for his secrecy.
“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years,” Reubens wrote. “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 concluded.
In addition to a request for “any expressions of sympathy” to be made in his parents’ honor with Stand Up to Cancer donations, the social media upload included a lengthy statement.
“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,” the caption read. “Paul bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit.”
The post called Reubens “a gifted and prolific talent,” writing, “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.”
Page Six has reached out to Paul Reubens’ rep for further comment.
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