10 Movies and Shows Like Pee-wee as Himself (2025)

Description: Like Pee-wee's world, Sesame Street creates a colorful, welcoming environment where learning and fun coexist. Both use puppetry and feature eccentric adult characters who connect with children.

Fact: Big Bird was originally conceived as a 'country bumpkin' character. The show's fast-paced format was inspired by Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In. Jim Henson initially didn't want his name associated with it, fearing it would hurt his other work.

Description: This educational show shares Pee-wee's playful approach to learning and features similarly quirky characters. Both use exaggerated performances and visual gags to engage their audience.

Fact: Featured early appearances by Morgan Freeman and Bill Cosby. Spider-Man segments were created because Marvel wanted to reach younger readers. The show was revived in 2009 with a new cast.

Description: Jim Henson's creation shares Pee-wee's blend of childlike wonder and sophisticated storytelling. Both shows create elaborate fantasy worlds that appeal to children while containing deeper themes for adults.

Fact: Created to promote international peace. Each country had its own human character segments. The Doozers' architecture was made of edible radish dust.

Description: This is the first feature film starring Pee-wee Herman, created by Paul Reubens. It shares the same eccentric, whimsical humor and surreal visual style as 'Pee-wee as Himself'. Both showcase Pee-wee's unique personality and childlike wonder.

Fact: Directed by Tim Burton in his feature film debut. The iconic 'Tequila' dance scene was improvised by Paul Reubens. The film's success led to the creation of 'Pee-wee's Playhouse'.

Description: The TV series that expanded Pee-wee's world with even more surrealism and interactive elements. Like 'Pee-wee as Himself', it blends childlike wonder with subtle adult humor and features Pee-wee's distinctive personality and mannerisms.

Fact: Won 22 Emmy Awards during its run. Featured groundbreaking animation techniques. Many famous actors made early appearances (including Laurence Fishburne as Cowboy Curtis).

Description: Shares Pee-wee's exaggerated cartoonish style and boundary-pushing humor. Both shows feature eccentric main characters in surreal situations, though Ren & Stimpy is more grotesque in its humor.

Fact: Creator John Kricfalusi was fired during season 2 due to production delays. The show pioneered 'gross-out' humor in animation. Nickelodeon initially rejected many episodes for being too disturbing.

Description: This Nickelodeon cartoon shares Pee-wee's blend of childlike characters in adult situations. Both use surreal humor and visual gags while maintaining an innocent surface.

Fact: Creator Joe Murray based Rocko's voice on his own when nervous. The show contained many hidden adult jokes. Was one of the first Nicktoons to tackle social issues.

Description: Like Pee-wee, SpongeBob is an eternally optimistic, somewhat naive character in a surreal world. Both shows balance slapstick humor with clever wordplay and visual gags.

Fact: Stephen Hillenburg was a marine biology teacher before creating the show. The iconic laugh was based on a dolphin sound. Tom Kenny (voice of SpongeBob) was originally considered for the role of Patchy the Pirate.

Description: This sketch comedy show shares Pee-wee's zany, unpredictable humor and features similarly eccentric characters. Both break the fourth wall and embrace absurdity.

Fact: Launched Amanda Bynes' career at age 1Featured early work by Drake Bell and Josh Peck. The 'Judge Trudy' sketches were inspired by real courtroom TV shows.

Description: While much darker in tone, this show shares Pee-wee's subversive approach to children's television. Both deconstruct traditional kids' show formats with surreal humor, though Wonder Showzen does so with explicit adult content.

Fact: Often described as 'Sesame Street on acid'. Featured disturbing puppet segments and fake public service announcements. Was sued by the estate of Charles Kuralt for unauthorized use of footage.