David Hasselhoff, the 71-year-old “Baywatch” star, recently commemorated his late former roommate, Paul Reubens, known to most as Pee-wee Herman, in a heartfelt tribute on Twitter and Instagram. Reubens, who was 70 at the time of his death, had a long-standing friendship with Hasselhoff dating back to their time together as classmates at the California Institute of the Arts.
Hasselhoff’s tribute included a black-and-white throwback photograph of himself with Reubens, who was dressed as his iconic character Pee-wee Herman. The image, which captures the warmth of their friendship, is inscribed with a message from Reubens to Hasselhoff: ‘To my ‘ol college buddy David aarrrrrrr! Your pal, Peewee Herman and David.’
The “Baywatch” star warmly remembered Reubens as a “great, great friend,” who generously gifted him muppets on his birthday and never failed to remember others’ special occasions. He described Reubens as someone who was invariably kind to everyone, stating that his presence will be greatly missed.
Reubens, revered for his enduring character Pee-wee Herman, had been battling cancer for years before his death. His representative confirmed his demise in a statement, describing Reubens as a treasured friend and a man of remarkable character and generosity of spirit. They acknowledged his place in the comedy pantheon due to his whimsy, positivity, and belief in kindness. His battle with cancer was described as brave and private, reflecting his hallmark tenacity and wit.
Tim Burton, who worked with Reubens on the 1985 film “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure,” also expressed his grief at the actor’s death. Burton reminisced about the help Reubens extended to him at the onset of his career and mourned the loss of a great artist.
Likewise, actor Joe Manganiello, who starred alongside Reubens in the 2016 film “Pee-Wee’s Big Holiday,” paid a touching tribute to him. He acknowledged the difficulty of bidding farewell to a dear friend, emphasizing the invaluable impact of having a supporter who believed in one’s potential.
