The reality television community is in mourning following the sudden and tragic passing of Mickey Lee, a standout contestant from the most recent season of CBS’s Big Brother. Lee, 35, passed away on the evening of Christmas Day, 2025, after a harrowing battle with severe medical complications.
Her family confirmed the news through a poignant statement shared on her official Instagram account on Friday. “Mickey captured the hearts of audiences nationwide through her appearance on Big Brother, where her authenticity, strength, and spirit left a lasting impression,” the family wrote. “She will be remembered for the joy she brought into the lives of so many.”
A Sudden Medical Crisis
The news of Lee’s “transition,” as her family described it, came just days after the public learned of her hospitalization. According to a GoFundMe page established earlier in the week to assist with mounting medical costs, Lee’s health declined rapidly following what began as complications from the flu.
The virus led to a series of cardiac arrests, leaving the 35-year-old in critical condition within an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). While her family remained hopeful, stating she was “stable” as recently as December 22, the damage proved too severe.
Host Julie Chen Moonves shared a touching tribute, revealing that Lee had previously overcome significant health hurdles, including being born with a hole in her heart and surviving a near-fatal ATV accident years ago.
Remembering ‘The Micktator’ of BB27
Mickey Lee made her national debut on Season 27 of Big Brother, which aired from July to September 2025. An event curator originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and living in Atlanta, Georgia, she quickly became a central figure in the house.
- Strategic Boldness: Mickey was known for her “no-nonsense” approach to the game. She famously pulled off a “HoH Coup” in Week 4, using a special power to dethrone a fellow houseguest and secure her own safety.
- The Nickname: While some houseguests affectionately (and sometimes fearfully) nicknamed her “The Micktator” for her commanding presence, Lee embraced the title, telling reporters after her eviction that she had “no regrets” about her playstyle.
- Placement: She was evicted on Day 59, finishing in 10th place. Despite not winning the $750,000 grand prize, she left as one of the season’s most talked-about personalities.
The BB27 Family Reacts
Tributes have poured in from her Season 27 castmates, many of whom formed deep bonds with Lee during the 83-day filming period.
| Cast Member | Tribute Quote |
| Jimmy Heagerty | “In the house you were my friend, my first #1, and my ride or die… losing you hurts in a way I wasn’t prepared for.” |
| Zach Cornell | “Thank you for being such an incredible friend… I’ll keep trying to shine your light through the A [Atlanta].” |
| Ashley Hollis (Winner) | Expressed deep sadness over the loss of a “warrior” and “beautiful spirit.” |
The family has requested privacy as they navigate this period of bereavement. They have indicated that details regarding memorial services will be shared at a later date. As of Friday afternoon, the GoFundMe campaign had raised over $32,500 to support her final expenses and medical debt.