Verne Troyer was born on January 1, 1969, in Sturgis, Michigan. He grew up in the nearby town of Centreville as one of three children born to Susan and Reuben Troyer. Unlike his siblings, Davon and Deborah, Verne was diagnosed with cartilage–hair hypoplasia, a rare form of dwarfism, resulting in his adult height of 2 feet 8 inches. Despite his condition, he was never discouraged and led an active childhood. He graduated from high school in 1987 and pursued a career in film shortly thereafter.

Stunt Work and Early Film Appearances

Troyer began his career in Hollywood in 1993, finding a niche as a stunt double for infants and animals due to his small stature. His first credited work came with the 1994 family comedy Baby's Day Out, in which he served as the stunt double for a nine-month-old baby. He went on to appear as an orangutan in Dunston Checks In (1996) and a baby gorilla in Mighty Joe Young (1998), both requiring extensive costuming and physical acting.

Breakthrough Role in Austin Powers

Troyer’s breakout came in 1999 when he was cast as Mini-Me in the comedy sequel Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, starring Mike Myers. His performance as the silent and mischievous clone of Dr. Evil earned him widespread recognition and critical praise. The role significantly raised his profile, and he reprised the character in the 2002 sequel Austin Powers in Goldmember.