(CNN) -- Verne Troyer, who played Mini-Me in two of the Austin Powers comedy films, has died at the age of 49, according to statements posted to his social media accounts.
"Verne was an extremely caring individual. He wanted to make everyone smile, be happy, and laugh," a statement posted to his social media said. "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 every day."
No cause of death was immediately released.
Troyer, who was reportedly 2 feet, 8 inches tall, once joked with CNN's Wolf Blitzer that after gaining fame as Mini-Me he would go out in public with a hat and sunglasses on, "but it just doesn't seem to work."
According to the Internet Movie Database, Troyer was in 58 movies and television shows.
This statement was posted to Troyer's Instagram and Facebook pages Saturday afternoon:
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.
CNN's Marilia Brocchetto contributed to this report.
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