A Deep Dive Into Paul Reubens’ Life And Career
On Friday, May 23, HBO will premiere the highly anticipated two-part documentary “Pee-Wee As Himself,” offering fans a candid and revealing portrait of Paul Reubens, the genius behind the beloved character Pee-wee Herman.
Directed by Matt Wolf, this soul-baring documentary takes viewers on an intimate journey through Reubens’ life, from his early inspirations in Sarasota, Florida, to his rise as a pop culture icon.
Part One: The Creation Of Pee-Wee
The first part of the documentary delves into Reubens’ childhood, tracing his influences from television shows like “Howdy Doody” and “I Love Lucy.”
His dreams of becoming an actor led him to the California Institute of the Arts, where he honed his skills in avant-garde performance art.
The film also reveals how Reubens’ time at The Groundlings improv group was pivotal in the creation of Pee-wee Herman, a quirky, impish character who would become an international sensation.
Through over 40 hours of interview footage and rare archival material, the documentary reveals how Reubens’ life intertwined with Pee-wee’s persona, eventually making him a global icon after the 1985 hit “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.”
However, his fame came at a cost—Reubens struggled with the pressures of being forever associated with his beloved character, and as fame grew, so did the complexities of maintaining his public persona.
Part Two: Fame, Scandals, And Resurrection
The second part explores the creation of “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” an Emmy-winning children’s show that celebrated diversity and nonconformity.
Reubens openly discusses the highs and lows of his fame, from the critical acclaim of “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” to the infamous scandal that threatened to derail his career.
The documentary takes a bold approach, showcasing Reubens’ eventual comeback, including his Broadway revival of the Pee-wee stage show and final Pee-wee film.
Despite the media’s relentless scrutiny, Reubens refused to let false rumors define his legacy.
In his final public moments, he reaffirms his lifelong commitment to creativity, acceptance, and spreading joy.
Watch The Trailer
A Celebration Of Reubens’ Legacy
“Pee-Wee As Himself” is more than just a documentary about an iconic character—it’s a tribute to Paul Reubens’ artistic journey, his commitment to performance art, and his deep personal reflections.
Featuring interviews with family, friends, and collaborators such as Tim Burton, Judd Apatow, Natasha Lyonne, and Laurence Fishburne, the film is a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.
Don’t miss “Pee-Wee As Himself” on May 23 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT, only on HBO and Max.
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