Actor Verne Troyer, best known for his role as Mini-me in the Austin Powers comedies has died at the age of 49.
According to a statement shared on his social media channels, Troyer had been admitted to hospital earlier this month and was placed on life support. Having publicly battled with depression and alcoholism, the actor passed away on Saturday.
“It is with great sadness and incredibly heavy hearts to write that Verne passed away today,” the statement said. “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 every day.”
Born in Michigan in 1969, Troyer began his career as a stunt double before going onto play other notable roles such as Griphook in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Coach Punch Cherkov in The Love Guru and Percy in Terry Gilliam’s The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, there are resources to help you. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. You can call directly at 1-800-273-8255. In the UK, you can contact Samaritans at 116 123.
In other music related news, songstress Jorja Smith has announced a release date for her debut album.
