Michigan native Verne Troyer, known for role as Mini-Me, dies at 49

Verne Troyer, the Michigan native best known for playing Mini-Me in the Austin Powers movies, has died.

The 49-year-old from Sturgis passed away Saturday, according to posts on his official social media accounts. Troyer was hospitalized in early April after friends concerned about his behavior reportedly called police.



It's not clear how Troyer died or why he was in the hospital, though a post on his Instagram makes reference to "depression and suicide."

"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," a caption under a photo of the star reads.

"Depression and Suicide are very serious issues. You never know what kind of battle someone is going through inside."

Shortly after he was initially hospitalized, Troyer's team said on Instagram that the actor was "getting the best care possible" and "resting comfortably."

Troyer stole hearts as Dr. Evil's side kick, Mini-Me, in “Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me” and “Austin Powers in Goldmember.” After starring in the 1999 and 2002 films, he went on to appear in more than two dozen movies and shows, playing mostly smaller roles.

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

A post shared by Verne Troyer (@vernetroyer) on Apr 21, 2018 at 12:58pm PDT