“We’ll Miss You”: Millions Join Shaquille O’Neal to Mourn Veteran Actor, Who Penned Gutwrenching Apology Before Tragic End

The iconic entertainer behind Pee-Wee Herman passed away on July 30, 2023. A legendary actor, he was widely famous for playing the comical character through the 80s and the 90s. The sad demise has left many shell-shocked, including NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, who shared his condolences.

The actor from Peekskill not only had a major impact on the entertainment industry, but his influence reached the sporting world as well. People from all walks of life paid tribute to the legendary star, with veteran celebrities, many of whom could credit the multiple-time Emmy winner for inspiring them, expressing their grief over this loss. Yet the world was left with one final message from the actor, who chose to uncover a painful secret after his demise.

Paul Reubens addresses fans one last time

The late Paul Reubens created and portrayed Pee-Wee Herman, a comedy symbol that entertained many generations. But he left the world in tears with his final act. The actor/comedian/writer/producer kept his battle with cancer private till the end.

A statement on Pee-wee Herman’s official social media pages broke the news. “Paul bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit,” it read.

The same post contained Reubens’ last message to his beloved fans. “Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years,” his letter stated. The caption was also full of appreciation for his fans. “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.”

His reps also expressed his final wishes in this statement. He asked that all tributes be made in the name of his late parents and to organizations working in the care or research of cancer, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. This little gesture of Reubens’ was a reflection of his nature in real life. The actor ensured that he’d remain the legendary character he was in our memories till the very end.

Shaquille O’Neal mourns a legend

No amount of words, pictures, and videos could sum up the magic that Paul Reubens had. But Shaquille O’Neal used the late star’s own post to pay tribute to him. A YouTuber created a viral mashup of Reuben’s Pee-Wee Herman and Queen’s late frontman, Freddie Mercury.

“The YouTube channel that made this incredible musical mashup of me and Queen is called ‘There I Ruined It.’ But ‘nothing’ is ‘ruined’ here, it’s TERRIFIC!” he had posted. The same YouTube channel reshared the video with this tweet and the added message, “We’ll miss you, Pee-Wee.” 

O’Neal shared this reel on his Instagram stories as a tribute to the legendary actor. It just summed up his love for all the creative minds and the encouragement he provided them. Moreover, Reubens was honored by Nike SB back in 2007 with a Dunk High sneaker. It was inspired by PeeWee Herman’s signature grey suit and red bowtie he wore on the television show.

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The pair was part of the ‘Fallen Heroes‘ pack highlighting celebrities whose careers were tarnished at the time. The pack featured shoes inspired by PeeWee Herman, Vanilla Ice, MC Hammer, and Milli Vanilli.

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Paul Reubens touched many hearts in his lifetime. He passed away at the age of 70. But he will forever remain a star to all of us.