Verne Troyer, best known for his role as Mini Me in the Austin Powers franchise, has died at 49.
The sombre announcement of his passing came via the American actor and stuntman’s official Facebook page on Sunday morning.
“It is with great sadness and incredibly heavy hearts to write that Verne passed away today,” the post read.
“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.”
While best known for his role as Dr Evil’s protege Mini-Me in the Austin Powers series, Troyer has a long list of appearances in film and television, including Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Boston Legal and Men In Black.
- READ MORE: Mike Myers leads tributes to Verne Troyer
His short stature – Troyer stood just 2 foot 8 inches, or 81 centimetres – was a result of achondroplasia dwarfism.
“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,” the official statement said.
“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.”
Lifeline: 13 11 14.