Big Brother Star Mickey Lee Dies at 35 After Cardiac Arrest

Viewers of Big Brother Season 27 were met with heartbreaking news this week following the death of former houseguest Mickey Lee. The reality television star passed away at the age of 35 after suffering multiple cardiac arrests and being rushed to intensive care on Christmas Day.

Lee’s family confirmed her death in an Instagram post shared on Friday, December 26, 2025. According to the announcement, she died on December 25 after her condition worsened despite urgent medical treatment.

Earlier in the week, Lee had been hospitalized and placed in the ICU after complications related to the flu reportedly triggered a series of cardiac arrests. Though she was under constant medical supervision, her health declined rapidly in the days that followed.

Hospitalization and Fundraising Efforts

As Lee fought for her life, her family and loved ones launched a GoFundMe campaign on December 22, 2025, to help cover medical expenses not fully covered by insurance. As of the latest update, the fundraiser had collected more than $36,465.

The GoFundMe page noted that Lee was originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and had been living in Atlanta, Georgia. She rose to national attention earlier this year as a contestant on Big Brother Season 27, which aired on CBS and streamed from July through September 2025.

Although Lee finished in tenth place, her personality left a lasting impact on viewers and fellow houseguests alike. The fundraiser described her beyond her television appearance, stating:

“But Mickey was so much more than what the world saw on television.”

Family Statement and Tributes

Following confirmation of her death, Lee’s family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support in a statement posted on Instagram:

“With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening. 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 and for the genuine connections she formed both on and off screen.”

Members of the Big Brother community, including past contestants and friends, also shared emotional tributes.

Former winner Rachel Reilly wrote:

“She will always be remembered, and I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to get to know her for the short period I did- she shared so much light with us and was such an amazing soul.”

Fellow contestant Mecole Hayes added:

“Mickey 💔 this is so devastating. We are incredibly sad for this unfortunate loss. Rest peacefully beautiful 😔.”

Jimmy Heagerty, who described himself as Lee’s closest ally in the house, shared a deeply personal message:

“In the house you were my friend, my first #1, and my ride or die… What we built wasn’t just a game relationship; it was real, and it mattered.”

Julie Chen Shares Health Details

Big Brother host Julie Chen Moonves also paid tribute to Lee, revealing previously unknown details about her health. In an Instagram post, Chen said she interviewed Lee two months ago, during which Lee spoke openly about her medical history.

“Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on God 101. 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.”

As fans continue to mourn her loss, Mickey Lee is being remembered for her resilience, warmth, and the genuine connections she formed both on and off screen.