“Big Brother” alum Mickey Lee died Thursday evening after suffering multiple cardiac arrests.
The 35-year-old’s family members confirmed her passing via Instagram the following day.
“With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening,” Friday’s statement read.
“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,” the upload continued.
“She will be remembered for the joy she brought into the lives of so many and for the genuine connections she formed on and offscreen,” Lee’s loved ones added.
After sending “deepest gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers, love and support,” Lee’s family asked for “privacy during this critical time of bereavement” as they mourn their “tremendous loss.”
The statement concluded, “Mickey’s light, legacy and impact will never be forgotten.”
News broke earlier this week that Lee had been hospitalized, with a GoFundMe page revealing the former CBS personality was in “critical but stable condition” after “suffer[ing] a series of cardiac arrests.”
At the time, the page’s organizer, Kori Smith, called Lee’s “road ahead … long and challenging” after the “sudden health crisis.”
As of Friday, $31,000 of the $40,000 fundraising goal — meant to cover medical care not covered by insurance, specialist care, recovery support and family members’ lodging and travel — had been reached.
Lee’s fellow “Big Brother” alums sent their well-wishes in Instagram comments amid her hospitalization.
“Praying for an easy and smooth recovery,” Jimmy Heagerty wrote, while Rachel Reilly added, “Prayers Mickey 🙏🙏🙏 thinking about you and your family.”
Lee, notably, was a cast member of the franchise’s latest installment, Season 27, which ran from July to September.
She was voted out by her co-stars during her eighth week on the show.
“I prefer it this way,” Lee insisted to Gold Derby upon her exit. “I get to go out and live my life a little bit before coming back for finale.”
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