The world of show business was saddened on Friday to learn that a beloved character actress who appeared in a number of highly regarded film and television productions had died at the age of 78.
As Variety reports, Lynne Marie Stewart, known for her roles in Pee-wee's Playhouse and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, passed away following a brief illness, with her passing confirmed on social media by Cassandra Peterson, a friend of the actress.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Stewart got her start in the entertainment industry as part of the California-based comedy sketch group “The Groundlings," work that first brought her into contact with Paul Reubens, with whom she would later collaborate in multiple projects.
From there, she went on to perform in a host of television and film roles, including portrayals on popular shows such as M*A*S*H, Laverne & Shirley and Night Court.
Some of Stewart's brief, yet noteworthy big screen roles included appearances in 1973's American Graffiti and the 1987 thriller The Running Man.
However, Stewart's most recognizable portrayals came in conjunction with former “Groundlings” colleague Reubens, whose Pee-wee Herman Show and subsequent Pee-wee's Playhouse brought broader notoriety.
Stewart will also be remembered by fans of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, which benefitted greatly from her portrayal of Charlie Kelly's mom, Bonnie.
As CBS News noted, the sudden and unexpected nature of Stewart's passing brought forth a range of reactions, including from Bette Smith, a spokesperson for the well-loved actress.
Smith explained of Stewart, “She was a genius with her craft. The work was most important to her she never cared about the money or fame. She was the kindest, most honorable person to know.”
Also paying tribute was Always Sunny actor Charlie Day, who wrote on Instagram, “The brilliant and talented Lynne Marie Stewart. Rest in peace. Thank you for all the years of laughter.”
Echoing his TV co-star's praise was legendary actor Danny DeVito, who wrote on X, “Gonna miss Lynne. Lynne Marie Stewart...So wonderful a spirit to work with on Sunny! All love to her family.”
Peterson, in addition to confirming her friend's death, described Stewart as “One of the kindest, sweetest, funniest women who ever lived.”
According to CBS News, Stewart leaves behind a sister, Gayle, as well as several grandchildren, in addition to Emily Hudson and Zac Hudson, who are the children of her best friend, Cindy Williams.
Also joining Stewart's friends and family in mourning this noteworthy loss are the legions of fans the world over who took joy and comfort in the celebrated actress's decades of work on both the big and small screens.
