Natasha Lyonne honored her friend and former co-star Paul Reubens after news of his death broke early Monday morning.
The actor, who was most famous for his iconic character Pee-wee Herman, died Sunday night. He was 70.
The cause of death was cancer, according to a statement given to The Post.
“Love you so much, Paul,” Lyonne tweeted today. “One in all time. Thank you for my career & your forever friendship all these years & for teaching us what a true original is.”
Lyonne played the character of Opal for six episodes of Season 1 of “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” which ran on CBS Saturday mornings from 1986 to 1990.
The actress would go on to star in numerous TV shows and movies, including “But I’m a Cheerleader”, “Orange is the New Black”, “Russian Doll” and “Poker Face.”
She’s one of many famous friends who have shared their grief over the beloved comedian’s death.
“Paul Reubens was like no one else — a brilliant and original comedian who made kids and their parents laugh at the same time,” posted Jimmy Kimmel. “He never forgot a birthday and shared his genuine delight for silliness with everyone he met. My family and I will miss him.”
Actor Steve Martin said that “Pee Wee got his wish to fly,” adding his thanks to Reubens “for the brilliant off-the-wall comedy.”
“No tweet can capture the magic, generosity, artistry, and devout silliness of Paul Reubens,” grieved Conan O’Brien. “Everyone I know received countless nonsensical memes from Paul on their birthday, and I mean EVERYONE. His surreal comedy and unrelenting kindness were a gift to us all. Damn, this hurts.”
An official statement announcing his death was posted on the actor’s Instagram on Monday.
“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,” read the statement.
“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.”
The post also included a statement from Reubens written to be shared after his passing.
“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years,” the comedy legend wrote. “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.”
