Lynne Marie Stewart, Star of Pee-wee's Playhouse and It's Always Sunny, Dies at 78

Lynne Marie Stewart, acclaimed for her roles in "Pee-wee’s Playhouse" and "It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia," has passed away at the age of 78. The news of her death emerged on February 21, announced by her friend Cassandra Peterson on Instagram.

"My heart is breaking upon hearing the news of my dear friend @lynnestewart78 Lynne Stewart’s passing," Peterson shared. Captioned with a photo that showcased Stewart with friends, she remembered her as "one of the kindest, sweetest, funniest women who ever lived." Peterson characterized Stewart as "the iconic Miss Yvonne of Pee-wee’s Playhouse," the beloved "Most Beautiful Woman in Puppetland."

Another close friend, Jonathan Stark, expressed his grief on Facebook. "I lost a friend today. And the world lost a great soul," he said. He noted her legacy as "Miss Yvonne," speaking of the immense joy her presence brought. "Her goodness and light would live forever," Stark added, reflecting on his heartbreak over her passing.

From 1986 to 1990, Stewart portrayed Miss Yvonne in *Pee-wee’s Playhouse*. She also appeared in "Pee-wee's Big Adventure" (1985) and "Big Top Pee-wee" (1988). Her journey began in the 1970s when she joined the Groundlings, a Los Angeles sketch comedy troupe where she first met Paul Reubens.

Making her debut in the 1971 film "Drive, She Said," Stewart cultivated a robust acting career. Throughout the years, she appeared in various shows and movies like "American Graffiti" (1973), "Laverne & Shirley" (1977-1983), "M.A.S.H" (1975-1977), "Life with Louie" (1996-1997), and "Arrested Development" (2004). Most recently, she brought to life the character Bonnie, Charlie Kenny’s mother, in "It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia" (2005-2023). This role marked her final acting credit.

In tribute, former cast member Mary Elizabeth Ellis praised Stewart on her Instagram Stories. "This woman. So lovely, so funny … I can’t believe I got to know and work with her," she said, reminiscing about falling in love with Stewart's work in her childhood.

Maya Rudolph shared a signed photo of Stewart on her own Instagram Stories, honoring the late actress. Actor Drew Powell remembered her as "the kindest, most affirming, most supportive person I’ve come across." He remarked on her positivity, noting the legacy she leaves behind.

PEOPLE has reached out to Stewart’s representatives for further comment.

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