Mickey Lee, a contestant on the most recent season of Big Brother, has died at the age of 35. Her family announced the news on Instagram on Friday, stating that she passed away on Thursday evening.
In a statement, her family 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. 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.'
Earlier this week, Lee's family had shared news of her worsening health and launched a GoFundMe campaign to support mounting medical bills. The fundraiser revealed that Lee had suffered a series of cardiac arrests following complications from the flu and was in intensive care in critical but stable condition. The campaign had raised over $32,000 of its $40,000 goal as of December 26.
Lee appeared on the 27th season of Big Brother, lasting 59 days in the house before being eliminated in 10th place. She was based in Atlanta.
Many Big Brother alumni expressed their condolences on social media. Rachel Reilly, a former contestant, commented: 'She will always be remembered... she shared so much light with us.' Bayleigh Pelham, winner of Big Brother Canada season 12, wrote: 'This is so heartbreaking. I'm so happy she got to live out an experience of a lifetime on Big Brother and share her light with the world.'
