Former ‘Big Brother’ contestant Mickey Lee, known for her bold gameplay and outgoing personality, has died at age 35, her family announced on Friday.
“With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening,” the statement posted to Lee’s official Instagram account said.
“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,” they wrote. “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.”
Lee’s death comes after her family created a GoFundMe account for her “medical journey,” saying that the funds were needed to pay for medical expenses not covered by insurance. The family raised over $32,500 as of Friday afternoon.
Lee suffered multiple cardiac arrests following complications from the flu, according to the GoFundMe page. Lee appeared on Season 27 of “Big Brother,” which aired on CBS earlier this year.
Fellow Big Brother alums commented on the Instagram post announcing Lee’s death and shared their own posts honoring their former castmate.
“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,” wrote Big Brother winner Rachel Reilly.
Julie Chen Moonves, the host of Big Brother, also posted a message on Instagram Friday, in which she shared a photo of herself with Lee. “Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on God 101. 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,” she began her post. “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.”
