Paul Reubens, known as Pee-wee Herman, once cared for his WWII top-gun father during his battle with cancer.
Comedian and Pee-wee Herman actor Paul Reubens Passes Away After Battle with Cancer
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of beloved comedian and Pee-wee Herman actor, Paul Reubens. After a courageous six-year battle with cancer, Reubens left this world on Sunday. However, his legacy and impact will forever live on.
A Heroic Legacy
Reubens, born Paul Rubenfeld, grew up in a Jewish family. He had always heard tales of his father, Milton Rubenfeld, and his heroic feats as a fighter pilot in World War II. However, he never fully grasped the magnitude of his father’s accomplishments until later in life.
His father’s story was featured in the 2014 documentary Above and Beyond, produced by Nancy Spielberg. Reubens and his mother, Judy Rubenfeld, shared their experiences and shed light on Milton Rubenfeld’s role as a top-gun pilot for the U.S. Army Air Force in World War II and later as a pilot in the Israeli Air Force during the 1948 Arab–Israeli War.
Reubens gained a newfound appreciation for his father’s bravery and dedication after reading the book On Eagles’ Wings by Ezer Weizman, which mentioned his father by name. Suddenly, the stories he had heard his whole life came to life in the pages of the book.
“Once I realized he did all of those things and they weren’t things that everyone else did also — I just had a completely different view of him,” Reubens shared.
A Proud Father’s Support
Reubens fondly recalled the moment when his father asked if he could attend the premiere of his first movie, Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure.
“Dad, I created this thing. You gotta come,” Reubens remembered telling his father.
At the premiere, Reubens beamed with pride as his parents stepped out of the car. His gregarious father even began signing autographs, proudly proclaiming himself as Reubens’ father.
A Comedy Icon
Reubens’ journey into the entertainment world was inspired by the Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus and television shows like I Love Lucy. He pursued acting in California and found success as a member of the Los Angeles-based improvisational comedy team, The Groundlings.
It was there that his iconic character, Pee-wee Herman, was born. From a comedy sketch at The Groundlings, Pee-wee Herman went on to star in the hit children’s television show Pee-wee’s Playhouse and the beloved movie Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.
A Lasting Legacy
Reubens’ passing has left a void in the entertainment industry, and many celebrities have expressed their grief.
“My heart hurts too much. I love you so much my dear friend of a lifetime,” actress Kristy Swanson, who starred in Buffy the Vampire Slayer with Reubens, wrote on social media.
Actor David Arquette also shared his heartfelt tribute, saying, “I love you Paul. You were the best friend a boy could ever wish for!”
Comedian Conan O’Brien reflected on Reubens’ unique comedy and kindness, writing, “No tweet can capture the magic, generosity, artistry, and devout silliness of Paul Reubens. His surreal comedy and unrelenting kindness were a gift to us all. Damn, this hurts.”
Honoring His Memory
In honor of Paul Reubens and his parents, his family has requested that fans donate to Stand Up to Cancer and organizations involved in dementia and Alzheimer’s care, research, and support.
Paul Reubens may be gone, but his impact on the world of comedy and entertainment will never be forgotten. He will forever be remembered as a talented performer who brought joy and laughter to generations of children and adults alike.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
