The new HBO docuseries “Pee-wee as Himself,” directed by Matt Wolf, takes an intimate look at the life of the late Paul Reubens, the creator and performer behind the beloved character Pee-wee Herman. Having premiered on May 23 and currently available for streaming on Max, the two-part series combines over 40 hours of interview footage with Reubens, providing a guided tour of his unique career and personal journey.
The first part of the docuseries traces Reubens’ childhood in Florida and his early acting experiences in Los Angeles, leading up to his meteoric rise as Pee-wee Herman. The narrative continues into the success of “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” then shifts to the darker moments following his public indecency arrest and the misunderstandings surrounding his sexuality that affected his reputation for years.
What sets “Pee-wee as Himself” apart from other biographical documentaries is its deep exploration of Reubens as a person. Through candid reflections, Reubens addresses his sexuality, which he had previously kept private. The series sheds light on the reasons behind his decision to maintain this ambiguity around his personal life and how it intersected with his iconic character. He candidly states, “I was as out as you could be, and then I went back in,” highlighting the complexity of his identity and public persona.
The docuseries also features testimonials from friends and collaborators, such as Cassandra Petersen and David Arquette, who provide further insight into Reubens’ life and the supportive networks he cultivated. However, it is ultimately Reubens’ own voice that resonates most deeply throughout the series, offering a bracing honesty that unveils who he was outside of his flamboyant alter-ego.
As the series progresses, it reveals the societal pressures faced by LGBTQ individuals and the consequences of cultural intolerance, drawing parallels to the broader issues that affect many in the community. The finale includes a poignant voice recording Reubens made shortly before his death from lung cancer in 2023, delivering a heartfelt message that encapsulates his journey and reveals the man behind the character.
“Pee-wee as Himself” is not just a testament to Reubens’ legacy but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity and representation in media. By exploring the nuanced facets of his identity and the challenges he faced, the docuseries reaffirm a hopeful message about the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring impact of candid self-expression in art.
This look back at Reubens’ life can inspire viewers to appreciate the complexities of identity within the tapestry of entertainment history, encouraging ongoing conversations about acceptance and understanding in society.