“Austin Powers’” Mini-Me Passes Away

Verne Troyer at "Tyler Perry's BOO! A Madea Halloween" film premiere, Los Angeles, 17 Oct 2016. Photo by Michael Buckner/Variety/REX/Shutterstock (6349886aj)

Renowned author J.R.R. Tolkien once said, “Even the smallest person can change the course of history.”

The Lord of the Rings writer was obviously referring to hobbits at the time, but the phrase can easily be applied to actor, Verne Troyer.

A representative for the 49 year old confirmed that he had died on Saturday.

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It is with great sadness and incredibly heavy hearts to write that Verne passed away today. Verne was an extremely caring individual. He wanted to make everyone smile, be happy, and laugh. Anybody in need, he would help to any extent possible. Verne hoped he made a positive change with the platform he had and worked towards spreading that message everyday. He inspired people around the world with his drive, determination, and attitude. On film & television sets, commercial shoots, at comic-con’s & personal appearances, to his own YouTube videos, he was there to show everyone what he was capable of doing. Even though his stature was small and his parents often wondered if he’d be able to reach up and open doors on his own in his life, he went on to open more doors for himself and others than anyone could have imagined. He also touched more peoples hearts than he will ever know. Verne was also a fighter when it came to his own battles. Over the years he’s struggled and won, struggled and won, struggled and fought some more, but unfortunately this time was too much. During this recent time of adversity he was baptized while surrounded by his family. The family appreciates that they have this time to grieve privately. Depression and Suicide are very serious issues. You never know what kind of battle someone is going through inside. Be kind to one another. And always know, it’s never too late to reach out to someone for help. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation in Verne’s name to either of his two favorite charities; The Starkey Hearing Foundation and Best Buddies. Photo by @paulmobleystudio

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A few weeks ago, USA Today reported that Verne had been hospitalized following an incident at his home the previous night.

While unconfirmed, it was believed that the occurrence was alcohol-related, with the star having been very open about his addiction.

Despite his stature of 2 feet 8 inches due to a genetic disorder known as achondroplasia dwarfism, the actor starred in 57 films — most notably as Dr. Evil’s sidekick, Mini-Me, in Austin Powers, Austin Powers 2: The Spy Who Shagged Me and Austin Powers in Gold Member.

Verne was also one of the rare, non-British actors to star in the Harry Potter series by playing Griphook in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

Mike Myers, who starred alongside Verne in the Austin Powers franchise, released a statement which read: “Verne was the consummate professional and a beacon of positivity for those of us who had the honor of working with him. It is a sad day, but I hope he is in a better place. He will be greatly missed.”

Indeed he will.