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.”