On the actor’s official Instagram page, a statement announcing the sad news read: “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 statement continued by confirming that cancer was the reason for his demise.

Paul heroically and secretly battled cancer for years with his signature humor and perseverance.

He will always hold a special place in the comedy pantheon and in our hearts as a beloved friend and a man of extraordinary character and generosity of spirit. He is a creative and prolific genius.

In the 1980s, Reubens and Pee-wee Herman became well-known because of Pee-wee’s Playhouse, a subversive and frequently completely absurd television program that ran from 1986 until 1990.

In the years that followed, Reubens frequently played the part of the character—known for his peculiar laugh and eccentric dress—in various films.

After a long break, his most recent project was 2016’s Pee-wee’s Big Holiday, which was made available on Netflix.

Reubens also had the chance to portray the part on Broadway, which HBO recorded.

He received a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Special for The Pee-wee Herman Show.

But throughout the years, Reubens has portrayed more than just the innocent comic book character; he has appeared in a number of well-known TV series, including Gotham, The Blacklist, and DC’s Legends of Tomorrow.

In his farewell Instagram post, Reubens thanked his supporters for their support over the years while keeping his cancer diagnosis and following health issues hidden.

Please accept my apologies for keeping what I’ve been going through the past six years private, Reubens stated.

“My friends, admirers, and supporters have always shown me a tremendous amount of love and respect.

“I have cherished creating art for each of you and have loved doing so.”

Reubens also had problems; he was detained on multiple occasions for various sexual offenses, including indecent exposure in Florida in 1991.

When authorities searched his house in 2002, they discovered pictures that were first categorized as child pornography; however, these charges were later dismissed after Reubens pleaded guilty to a less serious obscenity offense.

Reubens asked that donations be made in memory of his parents, Judy and Milton Rubenfeld, to Stand Up To Cancer or organizations that assist those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.