Julie Chen, longtime host of Big Brother, has shared new details about the health challenges faced by Season 27 contestant Mickey Lee following Lee’s death on Christmas Day. She was 35. News of Lee’s passing was confirmed in a December 26 Instagram post shared on her account, announcing that she died on December 25 after being hospitalized earlier in the week. According to reports, Lee had been admitted to the ICU on December 22 in critical but stable condition after suffering cardiac arrest due to complications from the flu.
Julie Chen’s Emotional Tribute
Hours after the death was made public, Chen took to Instagram to honor Lee and provide insight into her medical history. In the post, Chen shared a photo of the two women smiling together during a recent interview.
“Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on God 101,” Chen wrote. She revealed that during the conversation, Lee disclosed she was born with a hole in her heart, a congenital condition she had lived with since birth.
Chen also shared that Lee survived a serious ATV accident as an adult—an incident doctors reportedly believed could have been fatal. “God kept her alive,” Chen wrote, adding that Lee’s resilience had deeply moved her. The tribute concluded with a message of faith and remembrance. “Rest in peace, dear Mickey. I will see you again on the other side in eternity,” Chen wrote, offering prayers for Lee’s family and loved ones.
Family Confirms Death and Requests Privacy
Lee’s family confirmed her passing in a statement posted to her Instagram grid, announcing that she “transitioned on Christmas in the early evening.” The statement described Lee as someone who “captured the hearts of audiences nationwide through her authenticity, strength, and spirit.”
The family emphasized the impact Lee had both on and off screen, noting the genuine connections she formed during and after her time on Big Brother. They expressed gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support while requesting privacy as they grieve. Memorial service details, the family added, will be shared at a later date. “Mickey’s light, legacy, and impact will never be forgotten,” the statement concluded.
Remembered by the Big Brother Community
Lee competed on Big Brother Season 27, where she finished in 10th place. Though her time on the show was brief, fans remember her for her openness, emotional honesty, and resilience under pressure. Following the announcement of her death, tributes from fans and fellow cast members quickly spread across social media. Many praised her strength and authenticity, describing her as a contestant who left a lasting impression despite not reaching the finale.
A Life Marked by Resilience
Lee’s death has prompted renewed discussion about hidden health conditions and the seriousness of flu-related complications. While her family has not released additional medical details, Chen’s comments offered a fuller picture of the challenges Lee quietly carried throughout her life. As tributes continue to pour in, Mickey Lee is being remembered not just as a reality TV contestant, but as a woman whose courage and spirit resonated with many.
