Big Brother 27 winner Ashley Hollis says she and former co-star Mickey Lee had reconciled before Lee’s death.
In an interview with Us Weekly published Monday, Dec. 29, Hollis revealed that the two had met in person just weeks before Lee’s unexpected passing on Christmas Day and were on good terms.
“I saw her in Florida and we hugged,” Hollis said. “I just wanted bygones to be bygones. I reached out to Mickey, and I’m so glad I did — thankfully, she answered.”
On Friday, Dec. 26, the same day news of Lee’s death became public, Hollis shared — and later deleted — a screenshot on her Instagram Story showing a text message she had sent to Lee in an effort to “squash the beef” between them that stemmed from their time on Big Brother. While only Hollis’ messages were visible, she later clarified that Lee did respond, but she chose not to share Lee’s words.
“It just felt tasteless to me to share someone else’s text,” Hollis explained. “I want the focus to be on supporting her loved ones and honoring her legacy. When I saw it starting to turn into something else, I took it down.”
Hollis also released a statement to the outlet emphasizing her desire to support Lee’s family and preserve her memory.
“My immediate priority is to mourn the passing of Mickey Lee and to extend my deepest sympathies to her family, loved ones, and everyone affected by this profound loss,” the statement read. “Mickey was an exceptional person whose unwavering dedication to her community and tireless efforts to support others in Atlanta left a lasting legacy. Her contributions deserve recognition and tribute. I encourage everyone to focus on uplifting her loved ones and honoring her enduring legacy. As sisters in Christ, I will continue to support her family and uphold her memory. May she rest in peace. 🤍”
Hollis and Lee were allies for much of Lee’s 59 days in the Big Brother house. Following the season, the two became embroiled in a public dispute after Lee made a comment suggesting Hollis was not a “traditional Black woman.”
Lee later apologized for her wording, explaining, “I definitely used the wrong phrase. What I meant was ‘stereotypical Black woman.’ I felt like I was the only Black woman — the only Black person — in the house being treated through a stereotypical lens.”
On Dec. 26, Lee’s friends and family announced on Instagram that she had died at age 35 after suffering a series of cardiac arrests stemming from flu-related complications.
“With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening,” the post 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,” it continued. “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. Mickey’s light, legacy, and impact will never be forgotten.”
