'Big Brother' Community Shattered By Sudden Death Of Season 27 Star Mickey Lee

Mickey Lee, a cast member on "Big Brother 27" known for her bold personality and strategic gameplay, has died. She was 35. On Instagram, Lee's family shared a heartbreaking update about the "Big Brother" star, who had been hospitalized days before Christmas after suffering complications from the flu, asking for respect and privacy during such a difficult time.

Lee tragically passed away early on Christmas morning, according to an update her family shared on Instagram. "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." Lee's family added, "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 unexpected passing comes days after a GoFundMe created by her friends and family was shared online, revealing the reality star had been hospitalized in the ICU due to complications from the flu. "A vibrant, strategic, and unforgettable personality, Mickey captured the attention of fans with her energy, authenticity, and bold gameplay," the description of the fundraising appeal read. Originally from Florida but based in Georgia, Lee suffered "a series of cardiac arrests." In the fundraising post, her family shared that the "sudden health crisis" had placed a financial strain on the CBS alum.

The saddening update from Lee's family has caused an outpouring of love and support from supporters and "Big Brother" alumni.

Rachel Reilly, who appeared on earlier seasons of the iconic competition series and the most recent season with Lee, shared her condolences. "Sorry for your loss and my prayers for your family," she wrote. "RIP MICKEY - you are missed - love to all of you."

Meme Hayes, another "Big Brother" alum, wrote, "Mickey, this is so devastating. We are incredibly sad for this unfortunate loss. Rest peacefully, beautiful."

Jimmy Heagerty commented, "Mickey, my heart is absolutely broken. In the house, you were my friend, my first #1, and my ride or die. Outside of the house, we reaffirmed our friendship, and that means more to me than you'll ever know. What we built wasn't just a game relationship; it was real, and it mattered."

Heagerty continued, "I'm grateful for every laugh, every late-night talk, and every moment we had each other's backs. Losing you hurts in a way I wasn't prepared for, but I'll always carry the love, trust, and memories we shared. You'll forever have a piece of my heart."

Lee's unfathomable passing is just one of many losses among celebrity and TV personalities this year. According to an earlier report from The Blast, "Cosby Show" alum Malcolm-Jamal Warner passed in the summer of 2025 after drowning in Costa Rica. The legendary actor died at 53, leaving behind a wife and a young daughter.

His "Cosby Show" co-star, Raven-Symoné, reacted to the heartbreaking news with a social media post of her own, calling Warner a "big brother [and a] beacon." She added, "He gave the best advice, he gave the best hugs, and his smile will always be a huge, bright f-cking white smile in my head forever. I love you, and I know you're watching over all of us now. Bye, Malcolm."

Months later, Hollywood lost another hero, as acclaimed movie director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Reiner, were found dead on December 14, 2025.

According to several reports from The Blast, Rob and Michele were pronounced dead after police were dispatched to their California home, where they found the pair with multiple stab wounds.

Law enforcement officers later revealed that Rob and Michele's son, Nick Reiner, had been arrested in connection with the deaths and charged with murder.

Politicians and public figures alike expressed their devastation at the news of Rob and Michele's deaths, including Barack and Michelle Obama, who released statements praising Rob for his work in the industry and lauding Michele as a lovely and caring friend.

While it's still unclear what led to the deaths of Rob and Michele, Nick's struggle with substance abuse has been well-documented throughout the years, and insiders have claimed that his personal struggles could have played a role in their slayings.