Paul Reubens, best known as Pee-wee Herman, has died aged 70 after private cancer battle

Paul Reubens, the American actor best known for his role as Pee-wee Herman, has died aged 70 after a private battle with cancer. "Paul bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit," said a statement released by his estate earlier today.

As Pee-wee Herman, Reubens became a popular '80s icon, with his TV show "Pee-wee's Playhouse" an anarchic mix of juvenile antics and at times adult humour being spun off into feature films including "Pee-wee's Big Adventure," which was the debut feature film of Tim Burton, who would go on to cast Reuben's later on in his directing career in a cameo role in "Batman Returns."

However, in 1991 Reubens was arrested for indecent exposure in an adult theatre which led to the actor struggling to find work in the early part of the 1990s. However, a critically acclaimed revival of "Pee-wee's Playhouse" on stage ("The Pee-wee Herman Show") coupled with roles outside his Pee-wee character, including the 1999 film "Mystery Men", earned him support once again from both Hollywood and a legion of new fans unfamiliar with his earlier persona.

In a posthumously released statement on his Instagram account, the actor spoke about keeping his diagnosis private. "Please accept my apology for not going public with what I've been facing the last six years," the statement said. "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."

His estate added that he was 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. 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," the statement continued.

A "brilliant and original comedian"

Among the tributes paid to Reubens so far, comedian Steve Martin thanked him for "the brilliant off-the-wall comedy," while late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel called him a "brilliant and original comedian who made kids and their parents laugh at the same time".

"Bridesmaids" director Paul Feig added: "Paul was such a comedy genius. From his Letterman appearances to his TV shows and movies, he was so original and hilarious. "And such a sweet man too. This is a huge loss for comedy. Thanks for all the laughs, Paul."

Director Guillermo del Toro called him "one of the patron saints of all misfitted, weird, maladjusted, wonderful, miraculous oddities".