Lynne Marie Stewart, ‘Pee-wee’s Playhouse’ and ‘It’s Always Sunny’ Actress, Dies at 78

by

Actress Lynne Marie Stewart, widely recognized for her roles in “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” and “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” as well as numerous other productions, passed away at the age of 78.

On Friday, I unfortunately took my final bow, as confirmed by a representative from The Groundlings, the comedy troupe I was a part of. At this moment, details regarding the reason behind my departure are not yet clear.

With great sadness, The Groundlings announced the death of our beloved Lynne Stewart. Not only was she the most radiant beauty in Puppetland, she was the most beautiful person we’ve ever known, both inside and out. Her kindness, humor, and captivating aura could light up any room and spread joy far and wide. Though she will be greatly missed, her spirit lives on through the laughter and affection she shared with us all.

Born on December 14, 1946, in Los Angeles, California, Stewart embarked upon a long and successful acting journey. During her early acting years, spanning from the ’70s to the ’80s, she was also part of The Groundlings troupe. Over the years, she remained a significant figure within the community.

Following her debut as Miss Yvonne, the Most Gorgeous Woman in Puppetland, in the 1981 stage production known as The Pee-Wee Herman Show, she carried on this character to the CBS television show Pee-wee’s Playhouse, which aired from 1986 to 1991. She later revived the role for the 2010 Los Angeles stage reboot, as well as the Broadway production that opened at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre in November of 2010.

I’m most recognized for my ongoing character, Bonnie Kelly, who is Charlie Kenny’s mom, in “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” My last scene on the series aired during season 16, which wrapped up in the year 2023.

Among his film and television roles, Stewart is also known for appearing in titles such as American Graffiti, M*A*S*H, Husbands, Wives & Lovers, Madame’s Place, Laverne & Shirley, The Running Man, On the Television, Reasonable Doubts, Night Stand, Son of the Beach, Significant Others, Arrested Development, Curb Your Enthusiasm, 2 Broke Girls, and Comedy Bang! Bang!.

She is survived by her sister, Gayle Stewart.

Cassandra Peterson, a friend and fellow actress famously known for her role as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, was among those expressing tributes on social media following Stewart’s passing. In a post, she wrote, “My heart is heavy upon hearing about the demise of my cherished friend @lynnestewart78. One of the most compassionate, endearing, and hilarious women I’ve ever known. The legendary Miss Yvonne from Pee-wee’s Playhouse will forever be remembered as ‘the most beautiful woman in Puppetland.’

Read More

2025-02-22 21:24