Remembering Lynne Marie Stewart: A Comedy Legend

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Lynne Marie Stewart, a beloved actress and comedian, who passed away at the age of 78. Her friend Cassandra Peterson shared the heartbreaking news via Instagram on February 24, 2025, highlighting the profound impact Stewart had on those who knew her.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Stewart’s journey in comedy began with the renowned sketch group “The Groundlings,” where she honed her craft and formed lasting friendships, including with Peterson and Paul Reubens, who would later become her co-star in the iconic “Pee-wee’s Playhouse.”

Stewart’s career was marked by a diverse array of roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She made appearances on classic shows like “MAS*H,” where she played various nurses, and had memorable guest spots on “Night Court.” Her talent also shone through in recurring roles on “Laverne & Shirley.” In film, she made her mark with a brief but notable appearance in George Lucas’s “American Graffiti” in 1973 and later starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1987 thriller “The Running Man.”

However, it was her portrayal of Miss Yvonne, dubbed “the Most Beautiful Woman in Puppetland,” that solidified her legacy. Stewart first brought this character to life in the 1981 Broadway stage version of “The Pee-wee Herman Show,” and she continued to enchant audiences in the television series “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” from 1986 to 1990, as well as in the films “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” and “Big Top Pee-wee.”

In addition to her work on “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” Stewart also had a recurring role as Bonnie, the mother of Charlie Kelly on the hit series “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” Her extensive career in comedy included collaborations with Tracey Ullman on various sketch specials for HBO and Showtime, a stint on “Comedy Bang! Bang!” and numerous voice acting roles that showcased her comedic range.

Following the announcement of her passing, heartfelt tributes poured in from friends and colleagues. Peterson expressed her sorrow on Instagram, remembering Stewart as “one of the kindest, sweetest, funniest women who ever lived.” Jonathan Stark, another close friend, echoed her sentiments, reflecting on the loss of a great soul and the enduring legacy of Miss Yvonne.

Lynne Marie Stewart’s contributions to the world of entertainment will not be forgotten. Her talent, warmth, and humor touched the lives of many, and she will always be remembered as a shining star in the comedy landscape.