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Austin Powers actor Verne Troyer dies age 49

Austin Powers actor Verne Troyer has died aged 49, according to a statement on his social media pages.

The actor best known for his playing Mini Me alongside Mike Myers in the film series died on Saturday, according to his official Facebook page.

"It is with great sadness and incredibly heavy hearts to write that Verne passed away today," the statement read.

Verne Troyer as Mini Me in Austin Powers 2 (left) and the actor at Supanova Pop Culture Expo in Sydney in 2012. Source: AAP
Verne Troyer as Mini Me in Austin Powers 2 (left) and the actor at Supanova Pop Culture Expo in Sydney in 2012. Source: AAP

"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."

Myers said in a statement that his former co-star "was the consummate professional and a beacon of positivity for those of us who had the honour of working with him".

“It is a sad day, but I hope he is in a better place. He will be greatly missed," Myers said.

Myers also put Troyer in his 2008 film “The Love Guru.”

Troyer also played the banker goblin Griphook in 2001′s “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” and appeared on dozens of TV shows including “Boston Public,” ″Sabrina the Teenage Witch” and “MADtv.”

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He was born in 1969 in Sturgis, Michigan with achondroplasia, a genetic condition that kept him less than 3 feet tall.

“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,” the statement said. “He inspired people around the world with his drive, determination, and attitude. . . He also touched more people’s hearts than he will ever know.”

Troyer was baptised surrounded by his family during his recent struggles, the statement said. No place of death was given, but he lived in Los Angeles.

Actress Marlee Matlin was among those who paid tribute on Twitter, posting a picture of him and saying he worked with her to raise money for free hearing aids for the deaf and hard-of-hearing.

“So sad to read of the passing of Verne Troyer,” Matlin tweeted, saying Troyer had a “lovely smile with a caring and big heart.”

For support and information about suicide prevention, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health call Lifeline on 13 11 14.