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Austin Powers 4 Would've Told The Story Of Mini-Me

Austin Powers 4 Would've Told The Story Of Mini-Me

Director Jay Roach says he has been trying to 'think up an idea' for a fourth installment

Amelia Ward

Amelia Ward

The director of Austin Powers has revealed that the fourth film would've been about the life of Mini-Me.

In an recent interview, Jay Roach said that because of the shock death of Mini-Me actor Verne Troyer last year, Austin Powers 4 - as it was originally intended - probably wouldn't happen. If the movie were to go ahead, it would be down to Mike Myers' approval, or a change of direction.

Speaking to the Independent, Roach said: "We've been trying to think up an idea that could earn a fourth film for a long time, but it's always up to Mike. He and I always thought there was more to do with Dr Evil.

Mini-Me actor Verne Troyer.
PA

"To be honest, I don't know how we'd do it without Verne. We always had ideas of revealing a whole life that he had that would have taken his character much further."

He added: "If Mike cracks it and figures it out, we would definitely do some kind of tribute to him. I'm there if he ever wants to do it."

Verne Troyer tragically took his own life in April 2018, aged 49. He was best known for playing Mini-Me in the Austin Powers' movies, having starred in The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999) and Goldmember (2002).

Troyer's death came after reports of struggles with alcohol and depression. An emotional Facebook post broke the news at the time.

It read: "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."

The post continued: "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."

It ended: "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."

Featured Image Credit: New Line Cinema

Topics: TV and Film