David Farnor | On 24, Feb 2015

Netflix has confirmed that production is beginning on a new Pee-wee Herman film.

We first reported on the project, Pee-wee’s Big Holiday, last year, when it was rumoured to have moved to the streaming site. Now, Netflix has officially announced the movie, which will premiere exclusively on the service.

Judd Apatow and star Paul Reuben, who worked together to bring the project to fruition, will produce the film from a script by Reubens and Paul Rust (Comedy Bang! Bang!, Arrested Development).

John Lee will making his feature debut as director, after helming Broad City and Inside Amy Schumer for the small screen. Production will begin “in early 2015”.

Pee-wee’s Big Holiday will follow a fateful meeting with a mysterious stranger, which inspires Pee-wee Herman to take his first-ever holiday.

“We didn’t hesitate for a moment knowing that Pee-wee’s Big Holiday was such a passion project for Paul and Judd and we are delighted by the opportunity to introduce such a beloved character to a new generation,” said Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos. “We are thrilled to bring our viewers around the world the wonder of Pee-wee Herman.”

“As a fan of Pee-wee Herman since he first appeared on The Dating Game, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the brilliant Paul Reubens on this film. It is a dream come true,” said Judd Apatow.

“Judd and I dreamt up this movie four years ago. The world was much different back then— Netflix was waiting by the mailbox for red envelopes to arrive. I’ve changed all that. The future is here. Get used to it. Bowtie is the new black,” added Pee-wee Herman.

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