It's impossible to explain how the character of Pee-wee Herman has made a difference in my life, but here's how it all started. When my family was living in Tokyo in the 80’s, my Grandmother would send us VHS tapes that she recorded full of Saturday morning shows, tv movies, and all the latest content! Even though we were fascinated by local tv characters, our Japanese wasn't good enough to understand all of it. Grammy’s tapes were everything! She included all the best shows & commercials and made sure we didn’t miss out on pop culture for the fours years we lived overseas.
I’ve always loved making things and couldn’t get enough of Pee-wee’s silly charm and creativity. I was an instant fan! I wanted to jump into our magic screen and hang out at the Playhouse and make ice cream soup with him.
During our international school’s annual ski trip, we brought one of our beloved VHS tapes and played it as entertainment after dinner. I remember this night and the Pee-wee giant underwear episode so clearly! All of our classmates, parents, and teachers were laughing and everyone really enjoyed Pee-wee! He has a pure silliness that brings you to the perfect belly laugh no matter what your age. I really love that about his work! I remember Pee-wee reading fan mail from kids all over the world on his show the first season and I enjoyed when he mentioned places I had been or wanted to go! Pee-wee made it cool to be different and curious, and have all kinds of friends. He's absolutely one-of-a-kind and I’m so glad I got to grow up when and where I did and for my introduction to Pee-wee’s world at such a young age! It made a difference. 🎀✨
