Paul Reubens (né Rubenfeld; August 27, 1952 – July 30, 2023) was an American actor and comedian, best known as Pee-wee Herman. Joining The Groundlings in the 1970s, he developed the Pee-wee character, launching The Pee-wee Herman Show in 1981.
His film Pee-wee’s Big Adventure (1985) became a hit, though its sequel Big Top Pee-wee (1988) fared less well. From 1986 to 1990, Pee-wee’s Playhouse aired on CBS, winning 15 Emmys. After legal issues paused his career, he returned in Mystery Men (1999) and Blow (2001), reviving Pee-wee in 2016’s Pee-wee’s Big Holiday.
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Paul Reubens Net Worth
At the time of his death, Paul Reubens had a net worth of $5 million. In 1985, he used earnings from Pee-wee’s Big Adventure to buy a 3,000-square-foot home on 1.4 acres in Los Feliz, LA, for $415,000.
This remained his primary residence for nearly 40 years. In May 2024, Reubens’ estate listed the property for just under $5 million; it ultimately sold in July 2024 for $3.8 million.
Early life
Paul Reubens was raised in Sarasota, Florida in a Jewish family with his parents, Judy and Milton Rubenfeld, a WWII pilot and founding member of the Israeli Air Force. Reubens, inspired by the circus and comedy shows like I Love Lucy, began acting as a child.
At Sarasota High School, he led the National Thespian Society and performed locally. After stints at Plymouth State and Boston University, he moved to California for the California Institute of the Arts, working various jobs as he pursued acting.
Career
The character Pee-Wee Herman was created by Paul Reubens in 1978 during an improv session with The Groundlings, based on a man who dreams of being a comic but lacks talent. Reubens named him after the Pee Wee harmonica and a boy named Herman from his childhood.
After being rejected by Saturday Night Live in 1980, Reubens launched The Pee-Wee Herman Show in Los Angeles with support from fellow Groundlings. The show ran for months at The Roxy Theatre, leading to an HBO special and national fame through public appearances as Pee-Wee.
Personal life
In addition to his 1991 arrest, Herman was arrested in 1971 for loitering and prowling (charges were dropped). In 1983, he was placed on probation for two years due to possession of marijuana.
Also, in 2002, he was arrested and charged with possession of obscene material improperly depicting a child under the age of 18 in sexual conduct. He maintained his innocence, stating that the alleged materials discovered in his home were part of his vintage erotica collection.
What was Paul Reubens’ last role?
Paul Reubens’ final film role in Quiz Lady is a clever nod to a long-running joke. Despite the movie’s many gags and antics, there’s perhaps no scene as surprising (and bittersweet) as Paul Reubens’ cameo.
Best known for his role as Pee-wee Herman, Reubens makes a memorable appearance in the movie’s closing scenes, leaving a lasting impression that honors his comedic legacy.
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Conclusion
Paul Reubens’ financial story is as distinctive as his comedy. While he faced adversities, his financial success is testament to his popularity and the enduring appeal of his performances. His net worth at the time of his passing reflects a life spent entertaining and innovating in the world of comedy.
FAQs about Paul Reubens Net Worth
- How did Paul Reubens earn his wealth?
- Reubens earned his wealth primarily through his work as an actor and comedian, particularly through the character Pee-wee Herman.
- Did Paul Reubens have other sources of income besides acting?
- While acting was his main source of income, Reubens also worked as a screenwriter, producer, and director, which contributed to his earnings.
- Was Paul Reubens financially affected by his legal troubles?
- His legal troubles likely had financial repercussions due to legal fees and potential loss of roles; however, he managed to rebuild his career following these incidents.
- Did Paul Reubens invest in real estate?
- The specifics of his investments in real estate have not been publicly disclosed.
- What was the value of Paul Reubens’ estate after his passing?
- Paul Reubens’ estate was valued at $5 million at the time of his death in 2023
