Actor Verne Troyer has reportedly passed away at the age of 49, according to Associated Press reports. Troyer was best known for his role as Mini-Me in the popular "Austin Powers" series of movies. As of this report, it's unknown exactly what his cause of death was, or what his location was at the time of death. However, a lengthy Instagram post brought to light the actor's death on Saturday (April 21).
Troyer Instagram post
The WDBJ7 website and others have brought forth the AP report of Troyer's passing. A social media post was made on Verne Troyer's Instagram account on Saturday.
It presented a portrait shot of the actor, with an announcement of the heartbreaking news.
While no cause of death is specified, the Instagram caption and announcement suggests that Verne Troyer fought through many battles during his life. The post mentions "unfortunately this time was too much." It's also mentioned he was baptized while surrounded by members of his family during this latest "time of adversity." In addition to the announcement of Troyer's death, the Instagram post mentions that the family would prefer donations to Verne's preferred charities instead of flowers. Those charities are The Starkey Hearing Foundation and Best Buddies.
Troyer's movies and TV roles
As mentioned, Verne Troyer played the well-known role of Mini-Me in the "Austin Powers" films.
The character was a smaller cloned version of Mike Meyers' villain Dr. Evil, who would assist him in his plans to try to rule the world. Troyer didn't speak much at all in the role but rather used his actions to entertain the viewers. In one hilarious segment in the third film, he and Dr. Evil did a mock rap of Jay-Z's "Hard Knock Life" while in prison.
Troyer, who was born in Sturgis, Michigan, played the role in the 1999 film, "Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me" which was the first of two sequels to the original "Austin Powers" film. He played the part again in the third film in the series, "Austin Powers: Goldmember."
In addition to those Hollywood films, Troyer popped up in cameos and other roles in movies.
He was in 2001's "Bubble Boy," as well as "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," and "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." He has also appeared on a number of television shows in either a role or as himself. They've included "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch" in 2002, "Boston Public" in 2003, and "Garage Talks" in 2017. Troyer is part of the 2018 film "Hipsters, Gangsters, Aliens and Geeks" which is said to be in post-production.
Along with his acting, Troyer also began his own popular YouTube channel where he presented vlogs from his daily life as seen above. They would include a variety of everyday activities and guests, along with Q&A sessions. As more actors, celebrities, and fans become aware of Verne Troyer's death, there will likely be a major outpouring of condolences and support for the popular and friendly star.