Paul Reubens, the iconic actor best known for his unforgettable role as Pee-wee Herman, passed away on July 30, 2023, at the age of 70. Reubens, who was an Emmy-nominated talent, left behind a legacy that will continue to entertain and inspire generations. In a touching gesture, he requested that fans honor his late parents, Judy and Milton Rubenfeld, by donating to Stand Up to Cancer or organizations focused on dementia and Alzheimer’s research, support, and care. Scroll down to learn more about his personal life, including his family and past relationships.
Paul Reubens: A Life Beyond Marriage
At the time of his passing, Reubens was not married. However, he did share a unique story about an impromptu mock wedding ceremony he had with Chandi Heffner back in 1989. This lighthearted event took place at Shangri La, the estate of heiress Doris Duke. The former couple met through Jim Nabors, a well-known actor from the classic show Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.. Nabors even attended the mock ceremony and serenaded the pair with a heartfelt performance. Reubens later joked about the event, saying, “I still have the temporary marriage license signed by Imelda Marcos.”
Reubens also shared a meaningful relationship with actress Debi Mazar, which lasted from 1993 to 1999. He often credited her with helping him overcome one of the darkest periods of his life. "What finally pulled me out of my shell the first time was that I fell in love," he once said. "I met a woman, an actress—Debi Mazar—at a movie screening toward the end of 1993, and I was just so incredibly smitten that it was like, boom, I’m back!" He continued, "It was so powerful; it was a gift. I would be all funky and dark, but she was able to just say a bunch of stuff to me, like 'Come on! Up, up, up, up!'"
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After their breakup, Mazar went on to marry Gabriele Corcos in 2002. Reubens, however, chose to keep his love life private, maintaining a low profile in this area of his life.
Did Paul Reubens Leave Behind Children?
Reubens did not have any children. Upon his passing, his representatives shared a heartfelt statement with Closer, saying, “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.”
In addition to this, his team released a statement written by Reubens himself prior to his death. "Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years," the statement read. "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."
