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4h ago

HBO's 'Pee-wee as Himself' Offers Intimate Look at Paul Reubens' Life and Legacy

The two-part documentary, premiering May 23, explores Reubens' career, personal struggles, and the complexities of his Pee-wee Herman persona.

Paul Reubens in a scene from “Pee-wee as Himself,” a two-part documentary that premieres Friday, May 23, on HBO and HBO Max.
Paul Reubens as Pee-wee Herman in 1984 during a tour as seen in “Pee-wee as Himself,” a two-part documentary that premieres Friday, May 23, on HBO and HBO Max.
Paul Reubens in a scene from “Pee-wee as Himself,” a two-part documentary that premieres Friday, May 23, on HBO and HBO Max.
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Overview

  • Paul Reubens participated in over 40 hours of interviews for the documentary before his death in July 2023 from cancer, keeping his illness private from the filmmakers.
  • The film includes a poignant posthumous voice recording made by Reubens the day before his death, where he reflects on his legacy and personal challenges.
  • The documentary uncovers Reubens' hidden sexuality and a past relationship with a San Francisco artist, revealing the lengths he went to maintain privacy during his career.
  • It addresses Reubens' legal controversies, including his 1991 indecent exposure arrest and 2002 obscenity charge, framing the latter as an unjust persecution.
  • Blending interviews, archival footage, and personal photographs, the film examines the sacrifices Reubens made to create and sustain the Pee-wee Herman character.