Summary: The famed comedian of kid shows in the 80’s was arrested for masturbating in a theater during an adult-rated movie 25 years ago.
It has been 25 years since comedian Pee-wee Herman was arrested for exposing himself in a Florida adult theater. Pee-wee, aka Paul Reubens, was seen by a detective exposing himself twice and masturbating inside a XXX theater known as the South Trail Cinema.
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The undercover cop watched as Pee-wee “exposed penis with left hand” and started to “masterbate.” He did the same thing ten minutes later. He was arrested for sexual exposure. Pee-wee was a graduate of Sarasota High School and in town visiting his parents. He became a star for his show “Pee-Wee’s Playhouse in the 80s.
Pee-wee pleaded no contest to the misdemeanor charge and was given community service with a small $50 fine plus $85 for court costs. After his arrest and resulting bad press, he stayed out of the media for a few years. CBS dropped his show on Saturday mornings, his toys were removed from stores, and was the punchline for bad jokes.
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Some members of the public and celebrities came to his defense. Bill Cosby told People magazine, “Whatever he may have done, he hasn’t done that to children.”
The theater has since been demolished.
What is your favorite show that Paul Reubens has starred in? Tell us in the comments below.
To learn more about Bill Cosby’s own sexual allegations, read Judge Rules Bill Cosby Rape Case Will Move to Trial.
Photo: flavorwire.com