Lynne Marie Stewart, known for her supporting roles in popular TV shows like “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” and “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” has passed away at the age of 78, confirmed by her friend Cassandra Peterson on Instagram. Stewart, a native of Los Angeles, began her comedy career with “The Groundlings” sketch group, where she met Peterson and Paul Reubens, her future co-star in “Pee-wee’s Playhouse.”
Her early television credits include appearances on “MAS*H,” “Night Court,” and “Laverne & Shirley,” as well as a role in the iconic film “American Graffiti” in 1973. In 1987, she appeared in the Arnold Schwarzenegger thriller “The Running Man.”
Stewart was best known for her portrayal of Miss Yvonne, “the Most Beautiful Woman in Puppetland,” a role she originated in the 1981 Broadway stage version of “The Pee-wee Herman Show.” She continued to play Miss Yvonne in the “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” TV series from 1986 to 1990, as well as in the films “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” and “Big Top Pee-wee.”
In addition to her role as Miss Yvonne, Stewart also had a recurring role as Charlie Kelly’s mother Bonnie on “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” Her extensive comedy career included collaborations with Tracey Ullman on HBO and Showtime specials, a six-episode stint on “Comedy Bang! Bang!”, and various voice acting roles.
Following Stewart’s passing, Peterson expressed her grief on Instagram, calling Stewart “one of the kindest, sweetest, funniest women who ever lived.” Jonathan Stark, another longtime friend of Stewart, also shared his sadness on Facebook, describing her as “the Most Beautiful Woman in Puppetland” and expressing his disbelief at her passing.
The world has truly lost a great talent in Lynne Marie Stewart, whose iconic roles and comedic genius will be remembered by fans for years to come.
