Mickey Lee, Big Brother Season 27 Alum, Dies at 35
Jacksonville, Florida — Mickey Lee, an event curator and reality-TV personality best known for her appearance on Big Brother Season 27, has died at the age of 35 after complications from the flu that led to multiple cardiac arrests.
Her family confirmed that Lee passed away on Christmas Day 2025, following several days in intensive care. The news has sparked widespread grief across the Big Brother community, with fans, castmates, and public figures sharing tributes to her life and legacy.
Background and Career
Born on March 31, 1990, in Jacksonville, Florida, Mickey Lee later made her home in Atlanta, Georgia, where she built a career as an event curator and media personality. Known for organizing high-profile social events and red-carpet appearances, Lee cultivated a strong media presence even before her reality-TV breakthrough.
In 2025, she gained national attention as one of the Atlanta-area contestants selected for Big Brother Season 27. Outside the house, she continued to expand her media work, appearing on CBS aftershows and hosting entertainment events, including the red carpet for Married to Medicine Season 12.
Lee was often described by peers and fans as vibrant, fearless, and unforgettable. She was also candid about personal challenges, previously sharing that she was born with a congenital heart defect and had survived a serious ATV accident earlier in life.
Big Brother Season 27 Journey
During her time on Big Brother 27 (July–September 2025), Lee quickly emerged as one of the season’s most talked-about players.
She aligned early with returning champion Rachel Reilly, becoming part of a powerful alliance. One of her most memorable moments came in Week 4, when she used a special power to dethrone the sitting Head of Household.
Competition Highlights:
- Head of Household: 1 win
- Power of Veto: 1 win
- Blockbuster Competition: 1 win
Lee survived the block multiple times before being blindsided and evicted in Week 8, finishing 10th overall.
Inside the house, fellow contestants nicknamed her “The Micktator,” a moniker she embraced as part of her bold, commanding gameplay. While her assertive style divided viewers, many praised her for playing aggressively and unapologetically.
Illness and Passing
In mid-December 2025, Lee contracted influenza, which quickly escalated into a severe medical crisis. Her family revealed that she suffered a series of cardiac arrests, requiring ICU care and specialized treatment.
Despite efforts by medical teams, her condition deteriorated. She died peacefully on the evening of December 25, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
In a statement, her family said Mickey would be remembered for her authenticity, strength, and spirit, noting the joy and genuine connections she brought to everyone she met—both on and off screen.
Reactions and Tributes
Tributes poured in from across the entertainment and Big Brother communities.
Longtime Big Brother host Julie Chen Moonves shared an emotional message, recalling a recent interview in which Lee spoke openly about her health and faith.
Rachel Reilly wrote that she was “in shock and deeply saddened,” describing Lee as more than a castmate—family.
Other former houseguests echoed similar sentiments, remembering Lee as a bright light, a fierce competitor, and a loyal friend. Fans across social media expressed heartbreak at the loss of someone whose presence left a lasting mark on the show.
Family Fundraiser and Community Support
Days before her passing, friends launched a fundraiser to assist with mounting medical and family expenses related to Lee’s hospitalization. Donations surged rapidly, reflecting the deep affection supporters had for her.
The campaign emphasized Lee’s courage, bold personality, and the emotional and financial strain placed on her loved ones during the crisis. Messages of prayer, love, and remembrance accompanied contributions from fans around the country.
A Lasting Legacy
Mickey Lee’s journey—from Atlanta event curator to one of Big Brother’s most memorable modern contestants—left a powerful impression on viewers and fellow players alike.
At just 35, her life ended far too soon. Yet her confidence, resilience, and unmistakable presence continue to resonate with those who watched her play, worked alongside her, and loved her.
She will be remembered not only for how she played the game—but for the heart she showed beyond it.