Big Brother's Mickey Lee Dead At 35

Former "Big Brother" houseguest Mickey Lee died Thursday at the age of 35. The news was reported by her family on Mickey's Instagram account.

"With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening," they wrote. "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." 

According to a GoFundMe created on Dec. 22, Lee was hospitalized in the ICU following "a series of cardiac arrests." 

Lee competed in the most recent season of "Big Brother," which wrapped its Season 27 finale Sept. 28. She was evicted on Day 59 of the season. 

Tributes from her "Big Brother" castmates and alumni have already started pouring in. "Big Brother 13" winner and fellow Season 27 contestant Rachel Reilly commented on Instagram, "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." 

Jimmy Heagerty, who was the fourth player out of "BB27," shared a tribute to his Instagram page. "This is how I'll remember Mickey: someone who was silly, who smiled and laughed, but importantly, someone who cared. The way Mickey could light up a room without even trying, turn the smallest moments into memories, and make everything feel a little lighter. That's what I'll carry with me. I'm grateful for every laugh, every late-night talk, and every moment we shared. Losing you hurts in a way I wasn't prepared for, but I'll always hold onto the love, trust, and joy we shared. 

"Mickey, my heart is absolutely broken. During #bb27 you were my first friend, my first #1, and my OG ride or die," Heagerty continued. "Outside of the house we reaffirmed our friendship, and that meant more to me than you'll ever know. What we built wasn't just a game relationship, it was real, and it mattered."

Cliffton "Will" Williams, a "BB27" houseguest who was very close to Lee, shared his thoughts on Threads. "Rest in peace themickeylee. Words can't express the shock and sadness I feel." 

Williams continued in a comment on Instagram, calling Lee "an incredible spirit and a joy" in the "Big Brother" house. "This is absolutely horrible," he wrote. "Life is so short... The 'Big Brother' family will miss her dearly." 

"Big Brother" host Julie Chen Moonves also posted to Instagram Friday. "Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on God 101," she 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." 

"Big Brother" legend Danielle Reyes honored Lee on X. "My heart goes out to the BB family on the loss of Mickey, especially during Christmas," she wrote. "While I didn't know her personally, it's clear she was deeply loved. Sending condolences, strength, and love to her family and all who are grieving."