Mickey Lee, who was a contestant on the latest season of the CBS reality show Big Brother this past summer, has died. She was 35 years-old.
Lee Passes Away At 35
Lee reportedly died on Christmas Day after she was rushed to the hospital. She had reportedly suffered multiple cardiac arrests as she battled the flu.
“With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening,” Lee’s loved ones wrote on Instagram on Friday morning. “Mickey captured the hearts of audiences nationwide through her appearance on Big Brother, where her authenticity, strength, and spirit left a lasting impression on fans and fellow cast members alike.”
“She will be remembered for the joy she brought into the lives of so many,” the statement continued, “and for the genuine connections she formed both on and off screen.”
A GoFundMe page that was created on December 22 stated that Lee was in the ICU after suffering a “series of cardiac arrests.”
“A vibrant, strategic, and unforgettable personality, Mickey captured the attention of fans with her energy, authenticity, and bold gameplay,” the page stated. “Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and based in Atlanta, Georgia, she brought charm and fierce competition to the Big Brother house as an event curator and creative force.”
Tributes For Lee
Lee came in tenth place on this past season of Big Brother. She was eliminated on September 4 after 59 days in the house, narrowly missing out on the jury phase.
In the wake of Lee’s death, Big Brother host Julie Chen Moonves took to Instagram to pay tribute to her.
“Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on God 101,” the host wrote. “That’s when she revealed to me that she was born with a hole in her heart, and as an adult she survived an ATV accident that should have killed her, but God kept her alive. Last night God brought her home 🕊️ Rest In Peace dear Mickey. I will see you again on the other side in eternity. I pray the good Lord comforts and heals your family and loved ones as we grieve your passing. Amen 🙏🏼.”
Tributes have also been pouring in from Lee’s castmates.
“We are in shock and so saddened by the news of my big brother cast mate and family member- my heart is broken,” Rachel Reilly, who came in ninth place on this season of Big Brother, wrote on Instagram. “My heart goes out to her family and lifelong friends.”
“Big Brother doesn’t just give you castmates, it gives you family. I’m forever grateful I got to share that house and that experience with Mickey,” she continued. “We walked into the Big Brother house as strangers and walked out bonded for life. I wish I could still thank her for the memories, the laughter, and the moments only we will ever understand. I’ll carry a bit of Mickey with me always. Rest in peace, my friend.”
‘Shock, Disbelief…’
Ashley Hollis, who won this season of Big Brother, also took to Instagram to honor Lee.
“Shock, disbelief, a seemingly healthy, bright 35 year old passing is something you don’t think will happen ever,” Hollis wrote. “I will share more thoughts later but right now I don’t have words. Mickey was a bright light in this world, please pray for her family during this time. Christmas will never be the same for them. Love you forever Mickey.”
Please join us in saying a prayer for Lee’s loved ones during this incredibly tragic time.
Rest in peace, Mickey Lee.