NPR

'Pee-wee as Himself' is a portrait of a private man and his public alter ego

In 1986, one of the most unusual and iconic kids' TV shows debuted. (SOUNDBITE OF SONG, "PEE-WEE'S PLAYHOUSE THEME") PAUL REUBENS: (As Pee-wee Herman) Hey. CYNDI LAUPER: (Singing) Come in and pull ...
Los Angeles Times

Everyone knew Pee-wee Herman. But few knew the man behind the man-child

The first time we see Paul Reubens in the documentary “Pee-wee as Himself,” he is not playing Pee-wee Herman, the antic man-child he portrayed in comedy routines, movies, a children’s TV show and most ...
New York Post

Late Pee-wee Herman actor discusses sexuality for first time, painful scandals in final ...

PARK CITY, Utah — Better known for his broad smile and silly voices, Pee-wee Herman actor Paul Reubens becomes rawly emotional in the documentary “Pee-wee as Himself,” which premiered Thursday night ...
NPR

Paul Reubens steps out from behind his famous character in 'Pee-Wee as Himself'

Before his death in 2023, Reubens filmed an HBO documentary in which he explained why he refused to be seen or interviewed as himself for the whole time Pee-Wee Herman was starring in TV and films.
New York Post

Be like Pee-wee: Healthy nonconformity can save us from the identity trap

Americans today seem to almost venerate nonconformity: “Living your truth” is perhaps our society’s one unquestionable imperative. But what stands out about our approach to nonconformity is how much ...