The Big Brother family is mourning a devastating loss.
Mickey Lee, a houseguest on the CBS series' 27th season this year, died on Dec. 25 after being hospitalized for cardiac arrest. She was 35.
"With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening," the reality star's loved ones wrote on Instagram Dec. 26. "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," the note continued, "and for the genuine connections she formed both on and off screen."
The message also addressed the support Mickey's family has received in recent days following her hospitalization and stay in the ICU.
"Your kindness has been felt and is sincerely appreciated," the post added. "As the family mourns the tremendous loss, they respectfully request privacy during this critical time of bereavement."
The message concluded, "Mickey's light, legacy, and impact will never be forgotten."
After Mickey's death was confirmed, many members of the Big Brother family reflected on their time together.
"Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on God 101," host Julie Chen Moonves wrote on Instagram. "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. Last night God brought her home."
"Rest In Peace dear Mickey," she continued. "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."
Meanwhile, alum Rachel Reilly shared, "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," she continued. "I’ll carry a bit of Mickey with me always. Rest in peace, my friend."
For a look back at Mickey's life in photos, keep reading.
Miami Selfie
Two years before appearing on Big Brother, Mickey Lee shared glimpses of her life on Instagram.
Vacation Snaps
Mickey snapped a series of pics during a trip to Mykonos, captioning a social media post, "Picasso couldn’t paint a better picture."
Birthday Festivities
To celebrate her birthday, Mickey and her friends rode horses together. As she captioned this April 2024 Instagram post, "giddy up."
Big Brother Milestone
As Mickey made her Big Brother debut in July 2025, she posed for a photo with the season 27 cast and host Julie Chen Moonves.
End of an Era
Julie and Mickey sat down for a conversation as the season came to an end in September.
Health Journey
On Dec. 22, Mickey's family shared she'd been hospitalized following a "series" of cardiac arrests. Three days later, the reality star passed away at the age of 35.