Lee died in December 2025 after a series of cardiac arrests.

Big Brother honors late contestant Mickey Lee with onscreen tribute after her death at age 35

Lee died in December 2025 after a series of cardiac arrests.

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July 10, 2026 11:05 a.m. ET

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‘Big Brother’ star Mickey Lee. Credit:

- *Big Brother* honored late contestant Mickey Lee after she died at age 35.

- The show displayed an image of Lee in its latest episode.

- Lee died in December 2025 following a series of cardiac arrests and hospitalization.**

The new season of *Big Brother* paid tribute to late cast member Mickey Lee six months after her death at age 35.

Lee, who died after being hospitalized for several cardiac arrests in December 2025, had been a *Big Brother* contestant in season 27. The show then took the opportunity to honor her during Thursday’s season 28 premiere.

The show memorialized Lee in the opening moments of the season 28 premiere with a title card honoring Lee flashing on screen after the new houseguests made their debut on the CBS program.

Mickey Lee on ‘Big Brother’ season 27.

“In loving memory of Mickey Lee (1990 – 2025),” the text read, with an image of Lee holding up a heart sign with her hands accompanying the text.

Lee’s family announced her death late last year, with the star dying on Christmas Day after she was hospitalized for the aforementioned cardiac arrests.

“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,” her family wrote in a statement at the time. “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.”

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One day later, *Big Brother* host Julie Chen Moonves reacted to Lee’s death in an emotional statement of her own.

Chen Moonves shared a photo of herself with Lee as they embraced, writing, “Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on *God 101*. That’s when she revealed to me that she was born with a hole in her heart, and as an adult she survived an ATV accident that should have killed her, but God kept her alive.”

She continued, “Last night God brought her home. Rest In Peace dear Mickey. I will see you again on the other side in eternity. I pray the good Lord comforts and heals your family and loved ones as we grieve your passing. Amen.”

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