Julie Chen mourns ‘Big Brother’ star who died suddenly on Christmas

“Big brother” host Julie Chen mourns the sudden loss of season 27 star Mickey Lee. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, Chen, who has hosted the competition series since Season 1 aired in 2000, recalled speaking with Lee on an episode of his “God 101” podcast. During the conversation, Chen shared that Lee revealed a sad truth about his health condition.

Captioning a photo of her alongside Lee, who died at age 35, Chen shared that Lee told her she was “born with a hole in her heart” during a previous episode of her faith-based podcast. Chen also shared that Lee remembered a scary experience on the podcast that “should have killed her”; however, she miraculously survived.

“Last night God brought her home“, Chen wrote. “Rest in peace dear Mickey. I will see you on the other side in eternity. I pray that the Good Lord comforts and heals your family and loved ones as we mourn your passing. Amen.”

Lee’s family announced on social media that the reality star, known for his brash personality and stealth gameplay, died early on Christmas Day.

“Mickey captured the hearts of audiences across the country with his appearance on Big Brother, where his authenticity, strength and wit left a lasting impression on fans and fellow cast members,” the post read. caption read. “We will remember her for the joy she brought to so many and for the authentic connections she made both on and off screen.”

Elsewhere in the post, Lee’s family thanked those who have extended their best wishes and condolences during “this incredibly difficult time.” They added that the kindness shown to them did not go unnoticed.

“As the family mourns this tremendous loss, they respectfully request privacy during this critical time of grieving. Details regarding memorial services and arrangements will be shared at a later date. Mickey’s light, legacy and impact will never be forgotten,” they said.

Days before Christmas, a GoFundMe page dedicated to Lee was created, revealing that the CBS alum had been hospitalized in the intensive care unit after facing complications from the flu. The post added that Lee had suffered a “series of cardiac arrests”, leaving her struggling financially.

Lee’s unexpected passing sent a wave of sadness through the “Big Brother” community. In addition to Chen’s message, several “BB” alums also took to social media to pay tribute to their co-star and reality TV counterpart.

Season 27 contestant Jimmy Heagerty uploaded a carousel of images and videos of himself and Lee smiling while looking at the camera. He wrote in the caption: “This is how I will remember Mickey: someone who was silly, who smiled and laughed, but most of all, someone who always cared.”

Heagerty praised Lee for her ability to light up any room she entered, adding that “losing” her hurt more than he could have imagined. “Mickey, my heart is absolutely broken. During #bb27, you were my first friend, my first #1, and my OG ride or die,” he added. “What we built wasn’t just a play relationship, it was real and it mattered.”