The HBO documentary "Pee-wee as Himself" features Paul Reubens openly discussing his sexuality for the first time, emphasizing its impact on his legacy as a comedy icon. Directed by Matt Wolf, the two-part film chronicles Reubens' journey from his childhood and creative beginnings at CalArts, to the struggles he faced as a performer in the 70s, including two arrests that hindered his career. Reubens reflects on his decision to suppress his sexuality due to career pressures, using his iconic character Pee-wee Herman as a protective public persona.
"I was as out as I could be, and then I was back in the closet," he says, because "my career would have absolutely suffered" if he'd been openly gay at that time.
The two-part film proves exhaustive in its chronological exploration of Reubens' life, from growing up with his loving family to discovering his full creative potential.
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