Austin Powers Actor Verne Troyer Hospitalized After Apparent Suicide Attempt

Today brings sad news for fans of Austin Powers, specifically Verne Troyer's iconic role as Mini-Me. As it was revealed today, the 49-year-old character actor is currently placed inside an involuntary psychiatric hold for what was deemed suicidal behavior on Monday night. He is being held for 72 hours.

As Entertainment Tonight reports, law enforcement officers and fire department paramedics in Los Angeles were called to Verne Troyer's house by a friend who claimed the Austin Powers actor's behavior was "extremely upset, drunk and suicidal." Troyer has been confessional about his ongoing battle with alcoholism, particularly in the past couple years. TMZ reports that last year he was also admitted to the hospital for it. Troyer was rushed to the hospital for possible alcohol poisoning, and a psychiatric evaluation was performed. He was then placed in the involuntary psychiatric hold, better known as a 5150 hold, shortly thereafter. The 5150 hold is typically placed whenever a person is deemed a threat to themselves or others.

While Verne Troyer himself is unable to speak out about the situation, a representative for Troyer went on Instagram last night to release this statement.

The story is still ongoing. Additional information is forthcoming. We'll keep you posted on additional updates on Verne Troyer's condition as they arise.

Verne Troyer's resume and filmography includes roles in films such as The Love Guru, Bubble Boy, Postal, The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, Men in Black, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, to name a few of his film credits. He has also appeared in shows like Trailer Park Boys, Two and a Half Men, Scrubs, Boston Public, MADtv and Sabrina, the Teenage Witch.

Of course, Verne Troyer is best known and fondly remembered for his scene-stealing supporting role as Mini-Me in the Austin Powers sequels, 1999's The Spy Who Shagged Me and 2002's Goldmember. His prominent turns in both comedy sequels rose the actor into international stardom. Troyer appeared in both Austin Powers films, he was also a stunt performer, and his stunt work can be seen in films like Baby's Day Out, Dunston Checks In, Jingle All the Way, Volcano, RocketMan and My Giant. He also appeared on Celebrity Big Brother back in 2009. We wish him a safe recovery in this time of need.