John Paragon

John Paragon (December 9, 1954 – April 3, 2021) was an American actor, writer, and director. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Jambi the Genie and the voice of Pterri the Pterodactyl on the television series Pee-wee's Playhouse. Paragon was a graduate of Fort Collins High School in Colorado and began his career as a member of the improvisation group the Groundlings in Los Angeles. In addition to his work on Pee-wee's Playhouse, he co-wrote the Pee-wee's Playhouse Christmas Special with Paul Reubens, leading to an Emmy nomination. Paragon also appeared as Cedric on the TV series Seinfeld.