Actor Paul Reubens best known for playing the character Pee-wee Herman has died at age 70.
Reubens died on Sunday evening following a lengthy battle with cancer which he kept private.
The actor apologised to his fans via a statement after his death for keeping his six-year battle quiet.
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“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years,” he said.
“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.”
Reubens’ character Pee-wee Herman became a cultural phenomenon after being introduced in the 1980s.
The Pee-wee Herman show ran for five seasons attracting the interest of both children and adults.
The show would go on to win 22 Emmys.
Reubens starred in the 1985 film adaption of the show Pee-wee’s Big Adventure which grossed $40 million.
The actor would later cause controversy after being arrested in 1991 for indecent exposure.
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