Paul Reubens’ cause of death has been announced
(NEXSTAR) – Late actor and comedian Paul Reubens was battling two types of cancer when he passed away in late July, according to a death certificate obtained by multiple news outlets.
Reubens’ primary cause of death was listed as “acute hypoxic respiratory failure,” as first reported by The explosion. Hypoxic respiratory failure occurs when oxygen exchange from the lungs to the blood is impaired BMJ.
The cause of death was listed as acute myeloid leukemia (which affects the blood and bone marrow). People reported. Reubens was also recently diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer, suggesting the cancer had spread to his lungs.
Reubens, known for his character Pee-wee Herman, died on July 30 at the age of 70.
In one posthumous statement Reubens shared on Instagram the day after his death that he had been battling cancer for six years.
“Please accept my apology for not publicly stating what I have experienced over the last six years,” he said. “I have always felt great love and respect from my friends, fans and supporters. I loved you all so much and I enjoyed making art for you.”
The day after his death, Reubens’ team noted that he fought the illnesses with “tenacity and wit.”
“A gifted and prolific talent, he will live forever in the comedy pantheon and in our hearts as a treasured friend and man of remarkable character and generosity,” they said in part of Reubens.
