‘Big Brother’ star Mickey Leigh dies after a series of cardiac arrests
Mickey Lee, best known for his appearance on the reality competition series Big Brother, recently passed away after being hospitalized.
Mickey Lee, a television personality known for his appearance on the reality competition series Big Brother, recently passed away after being hospitalized. She was 35 years old.
Lee, who was hospitalized earlier this week after suffering a series of cardiac arrests, passed away on Christmas Day, his family said in a post on his official Instagram page on Friday, December 26th.
“Mickey won the hearts of audiences across America through her appearance on Big Brother, and her authenticity, strength and spirit left a lasting impression on fans and fellow cast members alike,” Lee’s family wrote.
“She will be remembered for the joy she brought to the lives of so many people and the genuine connections she made on and off screen. …Mickey’s light, legacy and influence will never be forgotten.”
Details of Ms. Lee’s memorial service will be shared at a later date, her family added.
A message posted on Ms Lee’s Instagram page on Monday revealed that she had suffered cardiac arrest due to flu-related complications and was in a critical but stable condition in intensive care. The statement added that Mr. Lee was “surrounded by medical professionals and loved ones.”
The post also included a link to a GoFundMe page to help with Lee’s medical expenses. The online fundraiser had raised more than $32,000 as of Friday.
Lee competed on “Big Brother” earlier this year, coming in 10th place and being eliminated in week eight.
The Event Curator reigned alone as Head of Household in Week 4, when he used his interrogation powers to remove Riley Jeffries from his post. She was also part of several influential alliances, but was eventually targeted for eviction by other guests who deemed her overbearing leadership style.
‘Big Brother’ stars react to Mickey Lee’s ‘devastating’ death
Following news of her death, Lee’s friends and colleagues in the reality TV industry took to social media to mourn the Big Brother star’s death.
Rachel Riley, who won Season 13 of “Big Brother” and co-starred with Lee in Season 27, wrote, “I am so sorry for his passing. I pray for his family.” “Rest in peace Mickey, we will miss you – with love to you all 🙏”
Another of Lee’s castmates, Jimmy Heagerty, remembered the television personality as his “ride or die.”
“Outside of the house, we reaffirmed our friendship, which meant more to me than I could have ever imagined,” Heagerty continued. “What we had was more than just a game relationship. It was real and it mattered. … Losing you hurts in a way I wasn’t ready for, but I will always carry the love, trust, and memories we shared. You will forever be a part of my heart.”
“This is so devastating,” Big Brother season 25 contestant Mecole Hayes wrote. “We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate death. May you rest in peace 😔”
“My heart sank…I met Mickey recently and was drawn to her beautiful spirit and infectious energy,” said Destination X star Ty Lowry. “Rest in peace to her family. We love you Mickey ❤️🕊️ Rest in peace 🙏🏽.”
“It’s heartbreaking. I’m so happy that she was able to live a once-in-a-lifetime experience on Big Brother and share her light with the world,” wrote Big Brother Canada’s Bailey Pelham. “It was a pleasure to meet her for a little while. She was so sweet and beautiful. Her light really amazed me. This hurts.”
This story has been updated to add new information.
Contributor: Melina Khan, USA TODAY
