Big Brother’s Rachel Riley pays tribute to Mickey Lee after her death

Big Brother’s Rachel Riley A touching tribute to his late partner Mickey Lee.

Posting via X on Thursday, January 1, Rachel, 41, opened up about the impact Mickey had on her life before her tragic death.

“I don’t think I’ve even given myself a chance to cry yet, but looking back at 2025 and seeing Mitch’s post really made me think about how she had such an impact on so many people’s lives!” Riley wrote. “I’ve been watching her story and she was an incredible woman – she touched so many lives and her story is woven into so many stories – she had an impact on my journey and I will always love her and never forget her.”

She continued, “I remember telling her one day at HOH that she is now a part of my heart and always will be, I mean 😍🥲 It’s so hard to lose a friend and especially such a bright light 💕 2025 wouldn’t be as impactful without the journey I went through with my brother and Mitch 💕”

Mitch was hospitalized after suffering multiple cardiac arrests on the evening of December 25, 2025, while battling complications from the flu. She is 35 years old.

“It is with deep sadness that the family of Mickey Lee announces on Christmas evening that she has transitioned,” her family wrote in a statement posted on social media on Friday, December 26.

“Mickey captured the hearts of audiences across the country with her appearance big brother“Her authenticity, strength and spirit left a lasting impression on fans and fellow cast members,” the statement continued. “She will be remembered for the joy she brought to so many lives and the genuine connections she made on and off the screen.” “

Rachel, Mickey’s roommate Big Brother’s Season 27 is one of the show’s former contestants who reacted publicly after the news was announced.

“We are shocked and saddened by the news about my brother, the actor and family, and my heart is broken,” Rachel wrote via X on December 26. “My heart goes out to her family and lifelong friends.” big brother It doesn’t just give you an actor, it gives you a family. I am forever grateful to have shared that house and that experience with Mickey 💕. “

Rachel continued: “We walked into big brother They feel like strangers in the house, but when they step outside, they feel like a lifelong bond. I wish I could still thank her for the memories, laughter, and moments that only we can understand. I will always carry a little bit of Mickey with me. Rest in peace my friend. 🤍. “

The Season 13 winner also shared a video of herself, Mickey and Ashley Hollis from inside big brother house.

On the same day, Big Brother host JYuli Chen Moonves She also expressed her condolences on social media after Mickey’s death.

“Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on ‘God 101/’ and 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,” Jolie wrote on Instagram. “God brought her home last night🕊️Dear Mickey, rest in peace. I will see you again in eternity.”

During her season, Mickey played 59 days in the league. big brother house. She was the last tenant to be evicted before the jury phase began.