Mickey Lee, a contestant on the most recent season of Big Brother, has died at the age of 35 following serious complications from the flu, her family announced Friday.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Lee’s family said she passed away on Christmas evening. They remembered her as someone whose authenticity, resilience, and warmth resonated deeply with viewers and fellow cast members alike.
“Mickey captured the hearts of audiences nationwide,” the family wrote, adding that she will be remembered for the joy she brought and the genuine connections she formed both on and off screen.
Tributes From the Big Brother Community
Messages of condolence quickly poured in from fans and former castmates. Rachel Reilly, a fellow Big Brother contestant, expressed her sympathy in the comments, writing that Lee would be deeply missed.
The show’s longtime host, Julie Chen Moonves, also paid tribute in a heartfelt Instagram post. She shared that she had recently interviewed Lee, during which the reality star spoke openly about being born with a hole in her heart and surviving a serious ATV accident earlier in life.
“Last night God brought her home,” Chen Moonves wrote, offering prayers for Lee’s family and loved ones.
Sudden Health Crisis
Lee, who appeared on Season 27 of the CBS series and was eliminated in the eighth week, had been hospitalized earlier this week after experiencing multiple cardiac arrests linked to flu complications, according to a GoFundMe page set up by her family.
The Jacksonville, Florida native — who was living in Atlanta — was reported to be in critical but stable condition in the ICU as of December 22. The fundraiser noted that the sudden medical emergency placed immense emotional and financial strain on her family due to mounting hospital and care costs.
Just one day before her death, Lee’s family asked for privacy, saying they needed quiet time to focus on her care and on supporting one another.
Remembered by Fans and Loved Ones
Following the announcement of her passing, fans across social media shared messages honoring Lee’s spirit and impact. Her family thanked supporters for their prayers and love during an incredibly difficult time.
Lee’s death marks a tragic loss for the Big Brother community and reality TV fans who followed her journey.