Mickey Lee dies at 35: Big Brother star passes away after multiple cardiac arrests as iconic castmate pays tribute

Big Brother alum Mickey Lee passed away on Thursday evening following multiple cardiac arrests.

Her family confirmed the heartbreaking news on Instagram the next day.

‘With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening,’ the statement posted Friday read.

‘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,’ the post continued.

‘She will be remembered for the joy she brought into the lives of so many and for the genuine connections she formed on and offscreen,’ her loved ones added.

Big Brother icon Rachel Reilly Villegas paid tribute to her former castmate in an exclusive with Daily Mail, saying: ‘I hate this so much – I am in shock – I don’t even feel like I should have a comment because it isn’t about me, my heart goes out to her family and lifelong friends – my heart is broken by this news. 

‘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. 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.’

Earlier this week, news emerged that Lee had been hospitalized, with a GoFundMe page noting the former CBS personality was in ‘critical but stable condition’ after ‘suffer[ing] a series of cardiac arrests.’

Lee’s family described the situation as a ‘sudden health crisis’ and said the ‘road ahead … [would be] long and challenging.’

The fundraising campaign was titled ‘Support Mickey’s Medical Journey’ and sponsored by Kori Smith for Chanel Hill-McElfresh. 

‘Mickey recently suffered a series of cardiac arrests and is now in the ICU in critical but stable condition,’ her relatives said. 

Lee, a Jacksonville native who now resides in Atlanta, ‘has been surrounded by medical professionals and loved ones, but the road ahead will be long and challenging,’ her family said. 

Lee and her relatives are ‘facing enormous emotional and financial strain from mounting hospital bills to ongoing care and recovery costs,’ the GoFundMe read. 

The family said they ‘are raising funds’ to support: medical expenses not covered by insurance; ICU and specialist care; rehabilitation and recovery support; family travel, lodging, and related costs. 

As of Monday afternoon, more than $12,000 of a $22,000 goal had been met. 

Relatives said that ‘every donation no matter the size will go directly to Mickey’s care and help ease the burden on her loved ones during this difficult time.’

Lee’s relatives described her as ‘vibrant, strategic, and unforgettable personality’ who had ‘captured the attention of fans with her energy, authenticity, and bold gameplay.’ 

The family said that ‘Mickey has touched so many lives through her courage, bold personality, and unforgettable presence on Big Brother,’ adding, ‘Let’s show her the same love and support now when she needs it most.’

The family wrapped up in saying, ‘Thank you for your generosity, prayers, and support.’

Lee came in 10th place on Big Brother’s 27th season, which was won by Ashley Hollis.

Lee was a ‘houseguest’ on the CBS reality series’ most recent edition, which was broadcast from July 10 through September 28. She was evicted from the home on September 4.

Multiple Big Brother alums offered Lee well wishes in the comment thread of an Instagram post apprising the public of her health woes and the fundraising efforts.

BB 27’s Lauren Domingue said she was ‘sending so much love and prayers.’

Jimmy Heagerty III of BB 27 said he was ‘praying for an easy and smooth recovery’ for his co-star. 

BB 26 alum Leah Peters said, ‘Wait what! I’m so sorry Mickey!! Sending my love & praying for a speedy recovery.’

BB 25’s Cameron Hardin wrote, ‘All the love Mickey! You’ve got this!’