In December 2014, rumors circulated online that Netflix would distribute the upcoming Judd Apatow-produced Pee-wee Herman film. Now, those rumors have been confirmed. The video-on-demand service has announced that the feature-length film Pee-wee’s Big Holiday will debut exclusively on the streaming platform.
Comedian and actor Paul Reubens created the Pee-wee character in the early 1980s for a stage performance. Reubens’ character eventually reached national fame, and Reubens received his own TV shows as well as two films, both of which Netflix currently streams. Netflix’s newest addition to the Pee-wee Herman filmography will feature the child-like character meeting a puzzling stranger who convinces Pee-wee to go on his first-ever holiday.
“We didn’t hesitate for a moment knowing that Pee-wee’s Big Holiday was such a passion project for Paul and Judd and we are delighted by the opportunity to introduce such a beloved character to a new generation,” said Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos in the release. “We are thrilled to bring our viewers around the world the wonder of Pee-wee Herman.”
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“As a fan of Pee-wee Herman since he first appeared on The Dating Game, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the brilliant Paul Reubens on this film,” Apatow added. “It is a dream come true.”
“Judd and I dreamt up this movie four years ago,” explained Pee-wee. “The world was much different back then— Netflix was waiting by the mailbox for red envelopes to arrive. I’ve changed all that. The future is here. Get used to it. Bowtie is the new black.”
Both Apatow and Reubens will produce Pee-wee’s Big Holiday. Reubens also penned the script with Paul Rust (of Arrested Development and Comedy Bang Bang! fame). John Lee (Broad City) will make his directorial debut with the feature film.
Production on Pee-wee’s Big Holiday is set to begin in March 2015. No release date has been announced as of yet.
