Julie Chen Moonves Says Mickey Lee Was ‘Born with a Hole In Her Heart’

Julie Chen Moonves is speaking out about the death of Big Brother alum Mickey Lee.

The longtime host of the competition series, 55, posted a heartfelt tribute to the late contestant on Instagram on Friday, Dec. 26, one day after Lee’s death at 35. Alongside a photo of the pair, Chen Moonves revealed that Lee had opened up about her health struggles shortly before her shocking death.

“Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on God 101,” Chen Moonves wrote, referring to her podcast. “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. Last night God brought her home 🕊️”

“Rest In Peace dear Mickey,” she continued. “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 🙏🏼”

The official Big Brother account commented “truly heartbreaking 💔” and reshared Chen Moonves’ post to its Instagram Stories with another message for Lee: “Sending our sincere condolences to Mickey’s friends and family and to the houseguests and fans who loved her as much as we did ❤️”

On Christmas day, Lee’s family announced her death “with profound sadness” in a statement on her personal Instagram page.

“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 statement read. “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.”

“The family extends their deepest gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers, love, and support during this incredibly difficult time. Your kindness has been felt and is sincerely appreciated,” the statement continued. “As the family mourns this tremendous loss, they respectfully request privacy during this critical time of bereavement. Details regarding memorial services and arrangements will be shared at a later date. Mickey’s light, legacy, and impact will never be forgotten.”

Lee died after suffering a “series of cardiac arrests” that landed her in the ICU in “critical but stable condition,” according to a GoFundMe created on Dec. 22. At the time, it stated that “this sudden health crisis has left Mickey and her family facing enormous emotional and financial strain from mounting hospital bills to ongoing care and recovery costs” and asked for donations.

The page currently has over $35,000 raised of the $40,000 goal.

The page further described Lee as “a vibrant, strategic, and unforgettable personality” who “captured the attention of fans with her energy, authenticity, and bold gameplay.”

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Following the news that Lee died, several other Big Brother alums took to the comments of her family’s announcement to pay tribute.

“She will always be remembered and I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to get to know her for the short period I did- she shared so much light with us and was such an amazing soul,” wrote Rachel Reilly.

“Mickey 💔 this is so devastating. We are incredibly sad for this unfortunate loss. Rest peacefully beautiful 😔” Mecole Hayes said.

Bayleigh Pelham wrote, “This is so heartbreaking. I’m so happy she got to live out an experience of a lifetime on big brother and share her light with the world. I’m honoured to have met her for a brief moment. She was SO kind and beautiful, I was truly amazed by her light. This one hurts. Sending all my love to her family and friends ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️”