Paul Reubens, the actor who made millions around the world laugh with his Pee-Wee Herman character, has died. He was 70.

“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,” a statement on his official Instagram account read.

The cause of death was cancer, according to the statement.

“Paul bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit. 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 creator and star of the subversive 1986 to 1990 TV series “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” revisited his iconic, giddy Pee-wee character on occasion over the years, including in the 2016 Netflix movie “Pee-Wee’s Big Holiday.”

In 2010 he also brought him back for a live Broadway installment of “The Pee-wee Herman Show,” which was filmed for HBO and received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special.

The performer has also flexed his acting chops with broader roles beyond his most memorable part, including arcs on shows like “DC’s Legends of Tomorrow,” “Gotham” and “The Blacklist.”

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