Verne Troyer's simple upbringing

Jan 4, 2010, 6:03 GMT

Verne Troyer can drive a horse and carriage.

The 'Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus' star picked up the skill when staying with his relatives, who are followers of the strict Amish religion - a form of Christianity than encourages simple living - and admits he still admires the lifestyle.

He said: "I used to be Amish. I had to stay a lot with my grandparents or aunts and uncles who are Amish, so I was sort of partially Amish. When I go back there now I still get into that culture. I can drive a horse and buggy because they don't use cars. And, of course, there's no electricity. I respect them a lot. The Amish like to live a very plain lifestyle, the way they think God intended. It sort of brings you back to like 'Little House on the Prairie' days or something."

The 'Austin Powers' star also revealed he has started working on his memoirs.

He added: "I'm also in the beginning stage of writing a book. It's going to be an autobiography about how I grew up."