Paul Reubens died in LA in July at the age of 70 (Picture: AP)
Paul Reubens’ cause of death has been revealed.
The star, best known for his iconic character Pee-wee Herman, died aged 70 in July.
For years prior to his death, Reubens had been battling two types of cancer, but it was acute hypoxic respiratory failure that killed him.
The condition means the body isn’t adequately provided oxygen by the respiratory system.
Reubens’ cause of death was confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter by the late actor’s rep.
It was announced in July that Reubens had died in LA, with many in Hollywood offering messages of condolences to the star on social media.
For years prior to his death, Reubens had been battling two types of cancer, but it was acute hypoxic respiratory failure that killed him (Picture: Kristina Bumphrey/Starpix/REX/Shutterstock)
He began his career in the 1970s and shot to superstardom with the launch of the Pee-wee Herman Show in 1980.
The character was an instant success, with his show sold out for months on end – leading to a big screen film in 1985, named Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.
Reuben recently reprised the role in a Netflix flick, Pee-wee’s Big Holiday, which was released on the platform in 2016.
He began his career in the 1970s and shot to superstardom with the launch of the Pee-wee Herman Show in 1980 (Picture: REX/Shutterstock)
His death was confirmed in a statement shared on social media, in which he posthumously explained that he had been diagnosed with cancer but chose not to share his condition publicly.
‘Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years,’ it 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.’
‘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,’ the statement continued.
‘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.’
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Reubens died in July.
