GettyActor and comedian, Verne Troyer, has tragically died aged just 49.
The film star, known by most for his role as Mini-Me in the iconic Austin Powers films, passed away earlier today.
Verne had been struggling with alcoholism in the years preceding his death.
On April 3, Troyer was rushed to hospital with suspected alcohol poisoning. Police and paramedics found him after a friend had called them claiming he was ‘extremely upset, drunk and suicidal’.
New Line CinemaTMZ confirmed the sad news of his death today, Saturday April 21.
His family released a statement to the news outlet.
As yet no further details have been released.
In the immediate aftermath of his admission, a post appeared on his Instagram calling for ‘thoughts and prayers’.
The heartbreaking post read:
Asking you to keep Verne in your thoughts and prayers. He’s getting the best care possible and is resting comfortably. Appreciate the support from family, friends, and fans around the world. We will keep you updated here.
Troyer had been battling alcoholism for years and in 2017 he was taken to hospital for the illness before checking into rehab.
After the news came out last year, Troyer posted a heartbreaking message to Facebook addressing his troubles.
He wrote:
I’ve been hearing from some concerned fans, so I’d like to address a very personal situation.
As you know, I’ve battled alcohol addiction in the past and while it’s not always been an easy fight, I’m willing to continue my fight day by day.
I’ve been receiving treatment for the last week and I am voluntarily checking into a treatment centre later this week to continue to get the help that I need.
I want to thank everyone that’s reached out with their messages of support, it truly means the world to me. With your support, I got this.
Verne Troyer burst onto the movie scene with his roles in Baby’s Day Out and Jingle All The Way but before long the 2’8″ actor was appearing in cult classics such as Terry Gilliam’s Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas.
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However he is best known for his roles in the Austin Powers’ films and of course his work alongside Keith Lemon.
In Mike Myers’ comedy spy classics, Troyer played Mini-Me, a one-eighth-size clone, of Powers’ arch enemy, Dr Evil.
In The Spy Who Shagged Me, Mini-Me and Dr Evil work together in an attempt to destroy Powers by going back in time and trying to rid him of his famous libido but of course, things don’t go entirely to plan.
Our thoughts go out to Verne’s family and friends at this hard time.
Rest in peace.
More to follow
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.
