Former Star Wars voice actor and iconic children's hero Paul Reubens has passed away

To so many kids in the 80s, Paul Reuben was the delightful nerdy star of Pee Wee's Playhouse, a children's show that, while over the top zany, preached good-will, equality, and kindness to a generation of fans. This week, we learned of his passing.

Reuben, who was 70 years old, quietly battled cancer for the last several years.

During his heyday, Reubens joined the Disney community as he became the voice Captain Rex on the original Star Wars, Star Tours attraction. The droid he provided the voice for was RX-24, the Star Tours pilot. After Disney and Reuben parted ways, he would later return to voice the droid R-3X in the cantina at Galaxy's Edge.

As part of his Disney days, Reuben voiced characters in Star Wars Rebels and TRON Uprising. He voiced Lock in The Nightmare Before Christmas and Fife in the Beauty and the Beast Christmas special.

Through his years as a character actor, Reubens had his share of ups and downs, including an arrest for indecent exposure in an adult theater.

On his official Facebook page, the news of his passing was met with quite a few tears and great memories. The posting announcing his passing reads as follows.

"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."

- Pee Wee Herman Facebook Page

Rest in peace Paul Reuben and for those of us who remember your generosity and humor...thank you! I promise to always ask the staff at the Alamo where the basement is located! If you know...you know!