Paul Rubens, the actor who brought life to the iconic character Peewee Herman has died. Rubens was 70.

A statement from Ruben’s estate detailed the actor’s private battle with progressive cancer, and paid special note to Ruben’s wit, talent, and generosity of spirit.

“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. 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.”

Rubens himself wrote the following Instagram post which went public today:

“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years. 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.”

In 1985, Rubens took the lead in Tim Burton’s breakthrough hit film Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, and 3 years later in the sequel Big Top Pee-wee, roles that would propel Ruben’s Pee Herman into the public consciousness as an iconic comedy character for decades to come.

Post Herman credits include the movies Mystery Men (1991), Blow (2001) and TV appearances in Reno 911! Pushing Daisies, Life During Wartime, Gotham, The Blacklist, Accidental Love, and Mosaic.