Rachel Reilly and Other Big Brother Alumni Respond to Mickey Lee’s Passing

The Big Brother community is in mourning over the tragic passing of season 27 alum Mickey Lee.

Mickey’s family announced her death on Thursday, December 25, following hospitalization due to multiple cardiac arrests from flu complications. She was just 35 years old.

“The Big Brother family is heartbroken today. Mickey was a standout on the show and in life—a force of nature, a bright light, and someone we were fortunate to have in our lives. Our thoughts are with her family during this difficult time,” stated Big Brother executive producers Allison Grodner, Rich Meehan, and Chris Roach on Friday, December 26.

On the same day, Mickey’s season 27 co-star and season 13 winner Rachel Reilly honored her memory on social media.

“We are in shock and profoundly saddened by the loss of my Big Brother castmate and family member—my heart is broken,” she expressed via X on Friday. “My thoughts go out to her family and lifelong friends. Big Brother doesn’t just provide castmates; it gives you family. I am forever grateful to have shared that house and experience with Mickey 💕.”

Rachel added: “We entered the Big Brother house as strangers and left bonded for life. I wish I could still thank her for the memories, the laughter, and the moments unique to us. I will always carry a piece of Mickey with me. Rest in peace, my friend. 🤍.”

Big Brother host Julie Chen Moonves also extended her condolences, sharing that she had spoken to Mickey recently.

“Two months ago, I interviewed Mickey Lee on ‘God 101.’ That’s when she revealed that she was born with a hole in her heart and survived an ATV accident as an adult that should have claimed her life, but God kept her alive,” Julie posted on Instagram on Friday. “Last night, God brought her home 🕊️. Rest in peace, dear Mickey. I will see you again on the other side in eternity.”

Continue reading to see tributes to Mickey from other Big Brother alums:

Jimmy Hagerty

Mickey’s season 27 co-star Jimmy Hagerty paid tribute to her as an event curator.

“Gone way too soon, my heart is shattered … Rest in power, Mickey. Love you forever ❤️,” he expressed via X.

In another tweet, Jimmy shared a selfie with Mickey, captioning it, “Forever my girl🫶🏼.”

Rachel Reilly

After her tribute post for Mickey, Rachel Reilly shared a video featuring her, Mickey, and Ashley Hollis inside the Big Brother house.

Brendon Villegas

“This morning, we woke up to the worst news we’ve had in a while. @RachelEReilly’s castmate #MickeyLee from #BB27 has passed away after multiple heart attacks days ago,” Rachel’s husband and former Big Brother contestant wrote via X. “We’re all at a loss for words. Please donate and support her family during this challenging time.”

Dick ‘Evel Dick’ Donato

Season 8 winner Dick Donato expressed his shock over Mickey’s sudden passing via X.

“Holy s*** … R.I.P. Mickey,” he posted. “Even after hearing about her illness and cardio arrest, I thought for sure, at 35, she’d pull through. I am devastated to learn she didn’t make it…”

Dan Gheesling

“I’m saddened to hear this news. Sending prayers to her family. You never know when it’s your time; cherish each day. 🙏🏼,” wrote the Big Brother season 10 winner via X.

Ashley Hollis

Season 27 winner Ashley Hollis, who had a complicated relationship with Mickey, shared her thoughts after the news of her death.

“I had no idea it was this serious; I guess I was naïve. A seemingly healthy 35-year-old—life isn’t fair,” she wrote via X.

In a follow-up post, Ashley mentioned that she and Mickey were trying to resolve their issues prior to her passing.

“I shared that because many of you keep saying I never liked Mickey, but that’s not true,” she tweeted. “I had nothing to gain from reaching out to her, just peace of mind and hope for healing. I can’t believe Mickey is truly gone.”

Will Williams

“Gone too soon, Mickey Lee. Rest in peace! Life is too brief. Sending prayers to your family 🙏🏾. Hug your loved ones tightly,” wrote the season 27 alum via X.

Danielle Reyes

“My heart goes out to the BB family over the loss of Mickey, especially during Christmas,” shared the Big Brother legend via X. “While I didn’t know her personally, it’s clear she was loved deeply. Sending strength, condolences, and love to her family and all who are grieving. 🤍🕊️”

Lisa Weintraub

“Rest in peace, Mickey,” wrote the season 26 alum alongside a selfie of them together. “You were vibrant, bold, unbothered, and a strong female entrepreneur. This is a heartbreaking loss for all who knew you. Miss you, fellow vibe architect. Love your vibe curator. 😥💕✨.”

Chelsie Baham

“Life is so short. I can’t believe this. RIP Mickey Lee 🕊️😔,” echoed the season 26 winner via X along with a photo of her and Mickey.

Derrick Levasseur

“I’m shocked by the news about Mickey. Another heartbreaking reminder that we aren’t promised tomorrow,” penned the season 16 champ via X. “Thoughts and prayers to Mickey’s friends and family.”

Tiffany Mitchell

“Rest peacefully, babygirl. 🙏🏽🤍🕊️ Life is short; tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, and every moment is precious,” the Big Brother 23 alum wrote via X alongside a slideshow of her and Mickey at an event. “May Mickey’s family, friends, and loved ones be enveloped by God’s grace. Love people, be kind, appreciate the little things, and remain grateful.”

Josh Martinez

“My heart aches for the news about Mickey. May she rest in peace. Sending her family much love and prayers 🙏🏽,” stated the season 19 winner.

Janelle Pierzina

“Praying for the family of Big Brother alumni Mickey. She passed away yesterday. I can only imagine what her family is enduring. RIP Mickey. #BB27 🙏,” tweeted the Big Brother legend.

Azah Awasum

“I am shaken. I didn’t get the chance to meet Mickey, but seeing someone my age navigate the game was meaningful, and I loved watching her live so authentically after Big Brother,” expressed the season 23 alum via X. “I truly admired her drive. May she rest in paradise. Hold your loved ones a little closer today.”

Angela ‘Rockstar’ Lantry

“I’m just so saddened for Mickey’s family; what a devastating loss,” the season 20 alum tweeted. “Sending so much love right now. I’m glad Mickey had the opportunities this past year, and I hope it was filled with joy. I looked forward to meeting her at this year’s premiere in NYC.”