Verne Troyer aka Mini Me dies at 49 after struggling with alcoholism and depression for years

Verne Troyer, who was popular for playing Mini-Me in the 'Austin Powers' comedies and also for being one of the shortest men in the world, has died at the age of 49.

The actor died on Saturday April 20th after years of struggling with alcoholism. Verne was reportedly taken to the hospital earlier this month after cops got a report he was drunk and suicidal. He's been on some form of life support since then and was treated for possible alcohol poisoning.

Verne has been to rehab many times as a result of his alcohol addiction. In a statement, Verne's family said during the recent adversity, "he was baptized while surrounded by his family."

The comedian was born with the genetic disorder known as achondroplasia dwarfism. He began his Hollywood career in 1994 as a stunt double for Baby Bink in the film 'Baby's Day Out.' He then landed small roles in 'Men in Black' and .Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas' before making it big as Mini-Me in 1999's 'Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me.'