Big Brother Star Mickey Lee Dies at 35 After Flu Complications and Multiple Cardiac Arrests

When the world was celebrating Christmas Day on December 25, 2025, friends, family and fans of reality television were instead met with heartbreaking news: Mickey Lee, the charismatic season-27 contestant from CBS’s Big Brother, had died at just 35 years old after a severe medical crisis that began with complications from the flu.

The announcement came the following day via Lee’s family on social media, who shared that she passed away early on Christmas evening after suffering multiple cardiac arrests tied to serious flu complications. In the final days before her death, Lee had been hospitalized and treated in the intensive care unit, with loved ones and fellow fans hoping for a recovery that sadly did not come.

Born Michaela Chalon “Mickey” Lee on March 31, 1990, in Jacksonville, Florida, she later made her home in Atlanta, Georgia, and worked as an event curator before becoming a familiar face on national television. Her appearance on Big Brother 27 — which aired during the summer of 2025 — introduced her to a wide audience, and she quickly became known for her authentic personality, quick wit and strategic gameplay. Though she was evicted from the competition in tenth place, the connection she forged with fans and fellow competitors endured far beyond her time in the Big Brother house.

The circumstances leading to her sudden decline began with a bout of the flu, a seemingly common illness that became devastating for Lee. Complications from the virus led to several cardiac arrests, a condition in which the heart abruptly stops beating, necessitating intensive medical care. Within days of hospitalization, friends and family had set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover her significant medical expenses, describing her condition as both critical and uncertain — a long, challenging road ahead. Sadly, despite being surrounded by medical professionals and loved ones, Lee succumbed to the complications on Christmas Day.

The response from the Big Brother community, and from reality TV fans around the world, was immediate and emotional. Current and former houseguests took to social media to share memories, tributes and deep condolences. Rachel Reilly, a well-known Big Brother alum and former winner, expressed her grief and recalled Lee's cheerful presence with fondness. Other castmates described her as an inspiration — someone whose energy and authenticity made a genuine impact both on screen and off.

Among the deeply personal tributes was a message from longtime Big Brother host Julie Chen Moonves. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she recalled an interview she had with Lee earlier in the year on her podcast series, during which Lee revealed she was born with a heart condition — a hole in her heart — and had survived a serious ATV accident that could have claimed her life. Chen Moonves described Lee as a survivor and said, “God brought her home,” acknowledging both her struggles and her resilience.

Fans also shared their grief and disbelief across platforms. Social-media reactions highlighted how sudden and shocking the news was — many viewers remarked that they had watched Lee’s growth on TV just months earlier, connecting with her authentic demeanor and lively interactions. Some fans noted that her passing was a stark reminder of how fragile life can be, even at a young age.

Lee’s passing brought a wave of support for her family, who have requested privacy during this difficult time. In their announcement, they emphasized the lasting impact she had on the lives of others: her strength, her spirit and the joy she brought to those around her. In addition, they expressed their appreciation for the outpouring of support and prayers during her final days. Details about memorial arrangements have not yet been released, as the family focuses on healing and honoring her memory.

Although her time on Big Brother was brief in the grand scope of television history, Mickey Lee’s presence struck a chord with many. She represented more than a reality-show contestant; she was a vibrant personality who embraced life with contagious confidence and openness. The outpouring of tributes from the Big Brother community — both cast and audience — reflects the deep connections viewers form with public figures who, for a short time, become part of their lives.

As tributes continue to flow and her family grieves, Mickey Lee’s legacy will be carried on through the memories she created and the authenticity she shared with a national audience. She will be remembered by fans and friends for her bold presence and the genuine warmth she brought to every room she entered.