“Eight years. That’s how long it’s been since I filmed Big Brother. And every time I post something faith-related or dress a certain way, someone finds their way to my comments to remind me that I wasn’t always like this,” Jessica, 35, wrote via Instagram on Tuesday, April 21. “You’re right. I wasn’t. And honestly? Thank God.”

When Jessica appeared on Big Brother season 19 in 2017, she was 26 years old, single and “figuring out who I was, what I believed, what kind of life I actually wanted.”

Now, she’s married to former costar Cody Nickson, raising five daughters and expressing how proud she is of her faith.

28 Hollywood Stars Get Personal About What Faith Means to Them for Easter

“If you’re the same person you were 8 years ago, that’s the thing that should concern us,” she said. “Growth isn’t something to be suspicious of. It’s the whole point. So yes. I’ve changed. I’ve grown. I’m not who I was in 2017 and I am so grateful for that. Thank God, literally. #bigbrother #personalgrowth #christianwoman #faithandfunny.”

Soon after sharing her perspective, Jessica — who won The Amazing Race with Cody, 41, in 2018 — received supportive comments from other reality stars.

“Thank God I’ve grown 👏❤️,” Big Brother alum Elena Davies wrote in the comments section. Bachelor Nation’s Vanessa Grimaldi added, “Amen!!❤️❤️.”

Both Jessica and Cody have been open about their faith after they experienced reality TV.

Over Easter weekend, the couple documented their trip to church, where they celebrated mass with their family.

“On the 3rd day, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ rose from the dead, declaring victory over sin, death, and the devil… what an amazing day to celebrate, Happy Easter ✝️,” Cody wrote via Instagram on April 5. “Tell everyone the good news 🙏.”

‘Big Brother’ Showmances Through the Years: Where Are the Couples Now?

As for their life in Texas, both Jessica and Cody said they finally found the perfect home to raise their family.

“It’s hard to build a community and deep relationships with people when you work from home and we were starting from scratch,” Jessica exclusively told Us Weekly in August 2025. “But we started finding our favorite community coffee shops and restaurants, joined a church that truly felt like home and started discovering friends that feel like family.”

Cody added, “I thank God every day how fortunate our girls are to have her as their role model and mom.”

“The secret no one knows about Big Brother — I think it’s really a marriage show,” host Julie Chen Moonves said during Entertainment Tonight‘s Big Brother 25th Anniversary Special in July 2023. “We’ve had more successful marriages than The Bachelor because when you are locked away from society, you bond, and you get to see every side of that person.”

Keep scrolling to see all the Big Brother showmances over the years and find out who’s still together:

The duo, who recently opened up about their life together in Michigan with their son Arrow, kicked off their romance back in 2018, when the pair met as cast members on the 18th season of Big Brother. The couple didn’t actually begin a relationship at the time, but rekindled their friendship at the premiere of Big Brother season 19.

Since then, it’s been smooth sailing for the now family of three. Nicole and Victor have been through a lot — including a slew of reality shows — together, and the highs and lows of life both on- and off-camera has only made their bond stronger.

From Big Brother to Amazing Race, here’s a look at the relationship between Franzel and Arroyo.

Couples Who Survived the Reality TV Curse (So Far) 

September 2017

Nicole and Victor met when they each first appeared on the 18th season of Big Brother, even though they didn’t begin their relationship until after filming had wrapped.

“Everything came together for the premiere of Big Brother 19, where we were in New York and we just clicked,” Arroyo told ET in September 2017. “From then on, it was, I guess it was a love story, and now she’s my girlfriend.”

The pair spent a significant part of their early time together long-distance, since Nicole lived in Michigan and Victor lived in New Orleans. Victor also told ET at the time that the couple were taking their time to see how things between them would develop.

“So, kinda see how that plays out, but it’s exciting. She’s friggin’ awesome. A lot of people don’t know her beyond Big Brother, but she’s a sweetheart in real life and I love her to death,” he said.

September 2018

During the season 20 finale of Big Brother in September 2018, Victor proposed to Nicole, telling her, “Nic, we met in the Big Brother house over two years ago. And right away, I thought you were the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen, and I fell in love with your personality.”

“We formed a friendship in the Big Brother house, but our friendship really blossomed outside in the real world,” he continued. “I knew the moment that we had that first kiss in New York that I was in love with you.”

November 2020

Nicole and Victor were forced to postpone their wedding due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with an initial wedding date of November 2020.

May 2021

The pair ended up getting married in May 2021, after announcing they were expecting their first baby together in January of the same year.

“It feels amazing! We’ve been waiting for this moment for so long and it’s finally happened,” the couple exclusively told Us. “All the stress of having a wedding is lifted off our shoulders. Now all our attention is focused on having a healthy and happy baby.”

July 2025

The pair live in Michigan with their son, Arrow, but they aren’t opposed to appearing on reality TV again. In July, they each told Us what reality show they would choose to appear on if they could.

“Survivor!” Victor answered. “My strategy would still be the same [as Big Brother]. Just try to win as many competitions as I can, but I’d like it for the experience, to try to see if I can do that, live out there and compete and stay mentally strong.”

Nicole added, “Mine would be Traitors because I like games where there’s not much physical activity. And then I think Dancing With the Stars. That’s very physical, so I guess that could be a problem, but it would be so fun.”

August 2025

Nicole announced she was pregnant with the couple’s second child via Instagram on August 24.

“We are PREGNANT !! Praise Jesus!! A HUGE thank you to those who have been praying alongside us for this miracle,” she wrote alongside a carousel of images that featured the pair’s first child, Arrow, 4. “3 years in waiting and God said it’s time … our little family is growing!!”

February 2026

Nicole and Victor announced the arrival of their twins on February 19.

“🎀 Goldie Jen & 🩵 River David,” the couple wrote via Instagram. “We’ve been soaking in every second with these two love bugs for the last few days 🥹.These cuties have made our Arrow a proud big brother changing our world forever in the best way possible 🥲.”

“🎀 Goldie Jen & 🩵 River David. We’ve been soaking in every second with these two love bugs for the last few days 🥹,” Franzel, 33, wrote via Instagram on Thursday, February 19, with the first photos of her new babies. “These cuties have made our Arrow a proud big brother changing our world forever in the best way possible. 🥲 We are BEYOND blessed and grateful for God trusting us with these healthy incredible babies. 🙏🏼 Thank you for the well wishes and prayers throughout this pregnancy and delivery. We appreciate you so much. 🥰 Our hearts have never felt so full ❤️.” 

Franzel and Arroyo, 34, met during season 18 of Big Brother in 2016, though their friendship did not turn romantic until after their time on the reality show. The couple began dating in 2017 and got engaged in September 2018. They later tied the knot in March 2021 and welcomed son Arrow that July.

The pair announced in August 2025 that they were expecting again.

Big Brother's Nicole Franzel and Victor Arroyo’s Relationship Timeline

“We are PREGNANT 🥹!! Praise Jesus!!” Franzel wrote in the caption of their joint Instagram post. “A HUGE thank you to those who have been praying alongside us for this miracle. Three years in waiting and God said it’s time 🥰🤍 our little family is growing!!”

The following month, Franzel and Arroyo revealed that she was pregnant with twins.

“We were and are ecstatic,” she told People in September 2025. “What a beautiful gift from God! I honestly felt so sick the first trimester and started showing around the eight-week mark, which, with my first pregnancy, I didn’t show until around 20 weeks.”

“I joked there must be two babies in there, and when there really was, I was happy-shocked,” she recalled. “I’ve always wanted to have twins, and they run in my family!”

While Arroyo was also surprised by the development, he emphasized his excitement, telling the outlet, “We’ve been trying to conceive for some time now, so this felt like a long-awaited gift.”

As for Arrow’s reaction to becoming a big brother, Franzel said he was “so, so excited.”

“He said before we knew there were two that he wanted one of each, a sister and a brother, and now there really are two!” she noted. “He knew it all before we did.”

'Big Brother' Babies! Jessica Graf and More Reality Stars Who've Given Birth

Amid the family’s eagerness to meet their new additions, Franzel explained how her pregnancy with the twins differed from her experience with Arrow.

“My last pregnancy was a cakewalk. This one is completely opposite,” she shared. “I’m already having sciatica pain and all other symptoms of being 30 weeks pregnant. Having two in there is a lot different than having one. I need to be more careful with my workload this time around.”

The following month, Franzel and Arroyo confirmed that they were expecting a baby boy and a baby girl.

“Did I think this combo was too good to be true? Yes!” she told People in October 2025. “But God is good and we are so blessed!!”

‘Big Brother’ Showmances Through the Years: Where Are the Couples Now?

As for potential baby names, Franzel added, “We ironically had one boy name and one girl name picked out, so we will try them out for the next month or so to see if they stick!”

Prior to announcing Franzel’s pregnancy, she and Arroyo spoke exclusively to Us Weekly in July 2025 about the key to their successful marriage.

“Express your feelings,” he suggested. “Say, ‘Thank you for doing that thing. I really appreciate that you did that for me’ and also the ‘I didn’t like what you did there and I want to talk about it.’ That’s important.”

During an interview with the reality TV show’s host, Julie Chen Moonves, for her “God 101” podcast — shared in part via an X fan account on Sunday, February 15 — Vince detailed the pair’s breakup. “We’ve talked about everything. I’ve had a lot of honest conversations with Kelsey and everyone else in my life and we’re not currently together. We’re taking time apart,” he said.

The split comes after Vince announced via an October 2025 YouTube video that he and his former girlfriend were “taking time” apart following speculation that he emotionally cheated with fellow housemate Morgan Pope while appearing on the show.

“I’m doing a lot of self-work and focusing on my areas of improvement,” Vince continued in his interview with Chen Moonves, 56. “While Big Brother was the greatest experience of my life, and I’m so grateful forever for it, it also did highlight some areas of opportunity within myself. I’ve just been spending a lot of time alone, also with family [and] friends, you know, trying to work on becoming the best version of myself I can be.”

Everything to Know About ‘Big Brother’ Runner-Up Vince Panaro’s GF Kelsey

He concluded, “At the moment, we’re not together, but last [time] I spoke to her, she’s doing well.”

Vince dated Kelsey for seven years before he joined the cast of Big Brother in July 2025. After settling into the social experiment, he struck up a close friendship with Morgan, 34, which drew chatter among viewers. Speculation of a romantic spark grew when Vince and Morgan were filmed getting cozy with one another on multiple occasions.

After he left the Big Brother house, Vince’s YouTube confessional found him explaining his experience on the show. “As far as probably the more common question that everybody is asking me, [it] is ‘What is my relationship like?’” Vince said at the time. “Kelsey and I have talked everything out. We have talked about everything and anything possible, and we’re currently taking time to process everything individually, and you know, figure out what things look like after that.”

‘Big Brother’ Runner-Up Vince Addresses His Friendship With Morgan

The video also saw him acknowledge his close bond with Morgan. “The fact of the matter is that I was in a relationship entering that house … so that’s all on me. And I understand the way that it looked,” he said.

Vince admitted that during his time in the house, friendship “lines started to blur,” before he defended his stance. “I felt like any level of affection was normal in that alternate reality I was living in,” Vince said in the video. “And some people will say, ‘How could you be that stupid? How could you not see it?’ And I could only say, ‘Well, you’d be surprised.’”

Despite the explanation, Vince ultimately took the opportunity to apologize for his actions. “I’m sorry for that,” he said. “I’m the one who set the boundaries. I was the one who was in a relationship … But outside, I could see that’s not being respectful to having a girlfriend, and I should’ve been extra cautious. But, the fact of the matter is, I wasn’t.”

“Dear body, I’ve watched you change. You stretched. You softened. More than I thought possible,” Franzel, 33, wrote via Instagram on January 29. “You slowed me down when I wanted to rush.”

The post included several snaps of Franzel in a light pink pajama set. The reality star tied her shirt up to show off her bump, on which she had drawn hearts and lipstick kisses.

Franzel shared that while her “mind wanted productivity,” she had to listen to her body as it “asked for rest.”

Big Brother’s Nicole Franzel Slams Body-Shamers After Pregnancy Reveal

“You carry more than weight. You carry life. Worry and hope. Fear and excitement. Exhaustion and faith, all at once,” she continued. “You are growing lungs. Growing hearts.”

While Franzel is “still facing” her own “judgment,” she expressed gratitude for her body and all the work it’s been doing during pregnancy.

“I am proud of you. I am grateful for you. I love you,” she concluded.

In August 2025, Franzel announced that she and husband Victor Arroyo were expanding their family. (The couple, who wed in 2021, also share son Arrow, 4.)

“We are PREGNANT 🥹!! Praise Jesus!! A HUGE thank you to those who have been praying alongside us for this miracle,” Franzel wrote via Instagram at the time. “3 years in waiting and God said it’s time 🥰🤍 our little family is growing!!”

The following month, Franzel revealed that she is pregnant with twins.

“We were and are ecstatic. What a beautiful gift from God! I honestly felt so sick the first trimester and started showing around the 8-week mark, which, with my first pregnancy, I didn’t show until around 20 weeks,” Franzel said in a September 2025 interview with People. “I joked there must be two babies in there, and when there really was, I was happy-shocked. I’ve always wanted to have twins, and they run in my family!”

Arroyo added, “We’ve been trying to conceive for some time now, so this felt like a long-awaited gift.”

Franzel later shared the twins’ sexes and asked fans for help coming up with potential baby names.

“We are having a boy and a girl!” Franzel wrote via Instagram in January. “We have 2 names we are highly considering but no others 😅! You guys helped name Arrow so you’re good at this! (I am curious if anyone suggests the names we have rn too!)”

'Big Brother' Stars Nicole Franzel and Victor Arroyo's Cutest Family Moments

Franzel is best known for competing on Big Brother seasons 16 and 18. In her second time playing, she was crowned the champion. While competing on Big Brother 18, she met Arroyo. Franzel and Arroyo did not form a love connection while playing the game. Instead, they formed a friendship that lasted after the season ended and later turned romantic.

During season 20, Arroyo and Franzel briefly returned to the Big Brother house, where Arroyo proposed. Since then, the couple have built a life in Michigan, where Franzel grew up.

“We’re still in the same town where I always lived. I’m super close to my family,” Franzel exclusively told Us Weekly in July 2025 about her and Arroyo’s quiet life. “I love the seasons. I love the country life. I love rural life. We did buy a house with 10 acres, and we literally have a rescue farm in our backyard, and we just rescued a dog.”

Rehfuss, 29, took to X on Sunday, February 1, to share a screenshot of a fan comment that read, “Claire BB23 liking two of my TikToks that exposed Derek BB23 of cheating on her with his coworker Olivia and dating a week after they broke up.”

The screenshot was originally shared by an X user who captioned it with, “Derek from BB23 cheated on Claire. Whitney’s karma.” (During season 23 of Big Brother, which aired in 2021, fellow housemate Whitney Williams and Xiao, 28, clashed, with Williams claiming he was a huge threat on the series.)

Rehfuss shared the post in full, writing atop the screenshot and caption, “This random f***ing account has been harassing us since we got off Big Brother. They’ve been racist, made up SA claims, threatened to kill my niece, harassed people I’ve followed etc.”

Big Brother's Derek Xiao and Claire Rehfuss' Relationship Timeline

The reality star also stated, “Derek didn’t cheat,” before adding, “Don’t engage with this pathetic stalker.”

Rehfuss announced via her Instagram Stories in September 2025 that she and Xiao, who also competed in The Amazing Race together in 2022 and won, had called it quits after four years of dating. “Hi everyone, after four wonderful years together, Derek and I have decided to end our relationship. Nothing dramatic happened, just the realization that we’re different people who want different things,” she wrote at the time.

The AI engineer continued, “We still care deeply about each other [and] are grateful for the time we shared and will remain friends. Thank you for all the love and support, it truly means so much. We hope that by sharing, we can be given the space and grace to move forward without any speculation or drama.”

The announcement was signed by both herself and Xiao, and Rehfuss added a purple heart emoji. Xiao later shared the post via his own Instagram account.

Amazing Race’s Derek Xiao and Claire Rehfuss Return for Season 35 Premiere

The former couple had met while filming the reality series before their friendship turned romantic after they were both eliminated and evolved into jury members.

Rehfuss exclusively told Us Weekly after the series wrapped in October 2021 that she believed they “both really felt chemistry” after arriving in the show’s jury house. “We would stay up late talking every single night and we just really developed a bond.”

Derek was also interviewed about the pair’s relationship at the time, telling Us that he recalled “such a strong connection and chemistry” with Rehfuss. “I think that was the beginning of us thinking about what this could be. I knew from week one that Claire was my type. I guess I just never let myself explore that beyond just a friendship,” he said.

After the duo won season 34 of The Amazing Race, which saw them awarded $1 million in prize money, they moved in with one another in California. After they split, Rehfuss notably stepped back from the public eye, returning to Instagram in November 2025.

Appearing happy in an apartment on her own, she captioned a November 11 video, “Took a little break from social media and ended up picking up a new hobby instead 👀 This was my first ever knitting project (because scarves are boring) and I can’t believe how easy it was.”

A subsequent Instagram video, shared two weeks later, confirmed that she had moved into a “new apartment.”

As season 4 of Peacock’s reality show kicks off on January 8, 2026, some viewers may recognize their favorite stars from the Real Housewives franchise or Travis Kelce’s mom, Donna Kelce.

While it’s important to keep eyes on these competitors, the real focus may just need to be directed at the stars from Big Brother and Survivor.

Sure, Lisa Rinna and Dorinda Medley can throw shade and read people in confessional interviews. But one thing they haven’t done is live in a house or on an island for weeks at a time with no connection to the outside world.

'The Traitors' Season 4 Cast Announced: See the Full List of Competitors

As the games begin on Peacock, keep reading to learn more about the Survivor and Big Brother players trying to make a name for themselves in the castle:

Ian Terry

SHOW: Big Brother seasons 14 and 22

During his first season on CBS’ reality show, Ian defied the odds by securing more jury votes than fellow finalist Dan Gheesling. He also made history by being the youngest winner in the show’s history.

While he didn’t make it as far in the show’s all-stars season — he made the jury and voted for Cody Calafiore — Ian has one connection in The Traitors castle. He’s a close friend of Rob Cesternino and a frequent guest on his podcast.

Natalie Anderson

SHOW: Survivor seasons 29 and 40

Natalie won her first season of Survivor and went back to compete in the champion’s season, Survivor: Winners at War, where she was the runner-up. Her social game and physical strength were showcased once again when she landed on a season of The Challenge, when she was paired with Wes Bergmann.

“I’m just trying to get an authentic vibe out of everybody and try to really see who I can trust just a little bit at the start of the game,” Natalie said about her strategy for The Traitors. “[I want to] start to build reputations and solid relationships that can carry me far into this game.”

Rob Cesternino

SHOW: Survivor seasons 6 and 8

After 22 years away from reality TV, Rob is back and ready to prove he still has what it takes to win big in competition shows. After all, Survivor host Jeff Probst once called him “the smartest player to never win.”

More recently, Rob has found success with his podcast titled “Rob Has a Podcast.” The show covers Survivor and other reality competition shows. And yes, some current cast members of The Traitors have been guests before.

Tiffany Mitchell

SHOW: Big Brother season 23

The Big Brother: Reindeer Games cohost found success on the CBS reality show when she helped construct the impressive Cookout alliance. Tiffany’s master plan ended up working, leading her and her alliance into the final 6.

Although she placed sixth in the competition, Tiffany became a fan-favorite and proved to be a true Queen in terms of creating alliances.

Yam Yam Arocho

SHOW: Survivor season 44

After bonding with Survivor tribemates Carolyn Wiger and Carson Garrett, Yam Yam secured himself a loyal three-person alliance that lasted all the way to the final 4.

His game play, social game and quick wit earned him the title of Sole Survivor with only one jury member voting for another finalist.

The Traitors season 4 premieres on Peacock Thursday, January 8, at 9 p.m. ET with new episodes dropping every Thursday.

Posting via X on Wednesday, December 31,  Rachel, 41, opened up about the impact Mickey had made on her life before her tragic death.

“I think I didn’t even give myself a chance to cry yet and looking back on 2025 and seeing posts of Mickey really has me thinking about how she had such a big impact on so many lives!” Reilly wrote. “I’ve been watching her stories and she was such an incredible woman – she’s touched so many lives and her fabric is woven throughout so many stories- she made an impact in my journey and I’ll always love her for it and never forget that about her.”

She continued, “I remember telling her one day in the HOH she’s part of my heart now and she always will be and I meant that 😍🥲 it’s so hard to loose a friend and especially such a bright light 💕 2025 wouldn’t have been as impactful without the journey I went on with big brother and Mickey 💕.”

Big Brother 27’s Mickey Is in ICU Due to Flu-Related Cardiac Arrests

Mickey died on December 25 after being hospitalized due to multiple cardiac arrests as she battled complications from the flu. She was 35.

“With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening,” her family wrote in a statement released via social media on December 26.

“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 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.”

Rachel, who was Mickey’s housemate in Big Brother’s 27th season, was among the show’s past players who reacted publicly after the news was announced.

“We are in shock and so saddened by the news of my big brother cast mate and family member- my heart is broken,” Rachel wrote via X on December 26. “My heart goes out to her family and lifelong friends. Big Brother doesn’t just give you castmates, it gives you family. I’m forever grateful I got to share that house and that experience with Mickey 💕.”

Rachel continued: “We walked into the Big Brother house as strangers and walked out bonded for life. I wish I could still thank her for the memories, the laughter, and the moments only we will ever understand. I’ll carry a bit of Mickey with me always. Rest in peace, my friend. 🤍.”

'Big Brother' Fans Resurface Now-Eerie Clip of Mickey Lee's Palm Reading

The season 13 winner also shared a video of her, Mickey and Ashley Hollis from inside the Big Brother house.

The same day, Big Brother host Julie Chen Moonves also took to social media to share her condolences after Mickey’s death.

“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,” Julie wrote via Instagram. “Last night God brought her home 🕊️ Rest In Peace dear Mickey. I will see you again on the other side in eternity.”

During her season, Mickey played for 59 days in the Big Brother house. She was the final houseguest to be evicted prior to the jury phase starting.

“I saw her in Florida and we hugged,” Hollis, 26, tells Us Weekly exclusively. “I just wanted bygones to be bygones. I just called to reach out to Mickey, and [I’m] so glad I did, thankfully, she did respond.”

Mickey died on Thursday, December 25, after suffering multiple cardiac arrests amid complications from the flu, according to statements from her family. She was 35.

One day after Mickey’s death, Ashley shared a screenshot via Instagram of her text conversation reaching out to her costar, hoping to “squash the beef” between the two. While some commenters took the screenshot to mean Mickey did not reply, Ashley clarified that she didn’t feel comfortable sharing Mickey’s words.

Rachel Reilly and More ‘Big Brother’ Alums React to Mickey Lee’s Death

“It just felt tasteless to me, sharing someone’s text,” she told Us. “I just want the focus to be [on] helping her loved ones and honoring her legacy and that being the focus, which is why I took it down, because I realized it was turning into something completely else.”

Ashley reiterated in a statement to Us that her priority is to continue to support Mickey’s loved ones.

“My immediate priority is to mourn the passing of Mickey Lee and to extend my deepest sympathies to her family, loved ones, and all those affected by this profound loss,” the statement read. “Mickey was an exceptional individual whose unwavering commitment to her community and tireless efforts to support others in Atlanta left a lasting legacy. Her contributions and dedication deserve recognition and tribute. I encourage everyone to focus on helping 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. 🤍.”

Mickey competed alongside Ashley on Big Brother 27, lasting 59 days in the house. The pair notably butted heads in the immediate aftermath of the season after Mickey implied in a September interview with Entertainment Tonight that Ashley is not “a traditional Black girl.”

'Big Brother' Fans Resurface Now-Eerie Clip of Mickey Lee's Palm Reading

She later walked those comments back, saying, “I definitely did use the wrong word choice and what I truly meant was stereotypical Black woman. … All I was trying to express [that] I felt like the only Black woman, Black person in that house that was being treated through a stereotypical lens.”

Mickey’s cause of death has not yet been revealed. Big Brother host Julie Chen Moonves shared a clip on Friday, December 26, of an interview with Mickey on her “God 101” podcast in which Mickey discussed being born with a small hole in her heart. Chen Moonves, 55, later clarified that it did not factor into her passing.

“To all those praying for Mickey’s family and loved ones, we want you to know that they clarified the hole in her heart did close, so that did not contribute to her passing,” she wrote via Instagram on Sunday, December 28. “In her memory, here is a portion of the interview where she reveals it while talking about being a woman of God. You are loved Mickey and we will never forget you. Rest in peace dear Mickey 🙏🏼🪽.”

In the clip from Big Brother season 27, Lee recalled being told by houseguest Ava Pearl during a palm reading that her “life line” on her palm was “kind of short.”

“I was like, ‘Wait, am I going to die?’ She was like, ‘Wait. Maybe that’s not the right line,’” Lee said, while Ashley Hollis added, “For Mickey, she goes, ‘Your life line is short.’ Mickey’s like, ‘Does that mean I’m going to die early?’ She’s like, ‘Um, you know. Let me do Ashley’s [reading].’”

For Hollis’ reading, she was told she had a “long life line” and would have the “same amount of money” — which led Hollis to wonder whether it would be “forever.”

‘Big Brother’ Host Julie Chen Moonves Reacts to Alum Mickey Lee’s Death

At the end of the clip, the pair began laughing as they recalled that Pearl admitted she actually didn’t know the difference between the life line and the kid line.

“Ash and Mickey talk about Ava’s palm reading during their HOH sleepover #BB27,” the caption for the clip shared in July read, which has since been reposted by users.

“Oh my gosh… them talking about ava saying mickey’s palm had a short lifeline is so eerie to watch now #bb27,” one user wrote via X.

Lee’s family shared on December 22 that she was in “critical but stable condition” and surrounded by “medical professionals and loved ones” in the ICU. Four days later, news broke that Lee died after being hospitalized due to multiple cardiac arrests as she battled complications from the flu. She was 35.

‘Big Brother 27’ Star Mickey Lee Dead at 35 After Multiple Cardiac Arrests

“With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening,” her family wrote in a statement released via social media on Friday, December 26.

“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 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.”

In the comments section on Instagram, the official Big Brother account shared their condolences and paid tribute to Lee.

“Mickey, you were such a light and full of joy and the bb interns are so honored to have met such a captivating and beautiful person like you,” the comment read. “And we are so thankful to have watched, clipped and post about you this year. Truly a devastating loss. You will be missed by all us and will always be in our hearts. Sending love to your family and those closest to you. ❤️.”

Hollis, for her part, mourned Lee in an emotional Instagram post alongside a carousel of photos from Big Brother.

“Shock, disbelief, a seemingly healthy, bright 35 year old passing is something you don’t think will happen ever,” Hollis wrote on Saturday, December 27. “I will share more thoughts later but right now I don’t have words. Mickey was a bright light in this world, please pray for her family during this time. Christmas will never be the same for them. Love you forever Mickey Lee 🩷.”

Mickey’s family confirmed that she died on Thursday, December 25, after being hospitalized due to multiple cardiac arrests due to complications from the flu. Mickey was 35.

“The Big Brother family is heartbroken today. Mickey was a stand out on the show and in life. A force of nature. A bright light and someone we are lucky to have had in our lives. Our thoughts are with her family on this sad day.” Big Brother executive producers Allison Grodner, Rich Meehan and Chris Roach said in a statement on Friday, December 26.

That same day, Mickey’s season 27 costar and season 13 winner Rachel Reilly paid tribute to her on social media.

‘Big Brother’ Winners: Where Are They Now? Dan, Derrick, Dr. Will and More

“We are in shock and so saddened by the news of my big brother cast mate and family member- my heart is broken,” she wrote via X on Friday. “My heart goes out to her family and lifelong friends. Big Brother doesn’t just give you castmates, it gives you family. I’m forever grateful I got to share that house and that experience with Mickey 💕.”

Rachel continued: “We walked into the Big Brother house as strangers and walked out bonded for life. I wish I could still thank her for the memories, the laughter, and the moments only we will ever understand. I’ll carry a bit of Mickey with me always. Rest in peace, my friend. 🤍.”

Big Brother host Julie Chen Moonves shared her condolences as well, revealing she recently spoke to Mickey.

“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,” Julie wrote via Instagram on Friday. “Last night God brought her home 🕊️ Rest In Peace dear Mickey. I will see you again on the other side in eternity.”

Keep scrolling to see the Big Brother alum who paid tribute to Mickey:

Jimmy Hagerty

Mickey’s season 27 costar Jimmy Hagerty paid tribute to the event curator.

“Gone way to f***ing soon, my heart is absolutely breaking … Rest in Power Mickey, I love you forever ❤️,” he wrote via X.

In a subsequent tweet, Jimmy shared a selfie of him and Mickey captioning the snap, “Forever my girl🫶🏼.”

Rachel Reilly

After sharing her tribute post for Mickey, Rachel Reilly shared a video of her, Mickey and Ashley Hollis from inside the Big Brother house.

Brendon Villegas

“We woke up to the worst news we have heard in a while this morning. @RachelEReilly’s castmate #MickeyLee from #BB27 has passed on after suffering multiple heart attacks several days ago,” Rachel’s husband and former Big Brother player wrote via X. “We are all left speechless. Please donate and respect her family during this tough time.”

Dick ‘Evel Dick’ Donato

Season 8 winner Dick Donato reacted to Mickey’s shocking death via X.

“Holy s*** … R.I.P. Mickey,” he wrote. “Even after reading about her being ill & going into cardio arrest, I thought for sure, at 35 years old, that she’d come out of all of it OK. I am shocked & sad to hear she didn’t make it…”

Dan Gheesling

“Sad to hear this news. Prayers to her family, you never know when it is your time, trying to cherish everyday. 🙏🏼,” the Big Brother season 10 winner wrote via X.

Ashley Hollis

Season 27 winner Ashley Hollis, who had her ups and downs with Mickey on and off the show, shared a tribute following her death.

“I had no idea it was this serious, I guess I was naive. A seemingly healthy 35 year old, life isn’t fair,” she wrote via X.

In a subsequent post, Ashley revealed she and Mickey were attempting to resolve their issues prior to her passing.

“I posted that because y’all continue to bash me saying I never liked mickey but that’s a lie,” she tweeted. “I had nothing to gain from reaching out to her a few weeks ago, but peace of mind and a hope for rekindling. I can’t believe Mickey is really gone.”

Will Williams

“Gone too soon Mickey Lee. Rest in peace! Life is too short. Prayers to your family 🙏🏾Hug your family close,” the season 27 alum wrote via X.

Danielle Reyes

“My heart goes out to the BB family on the loss of Mickey, especially during Christmas,” the Big Brother legend shared via X. “While I didn’t know her personally, it’s clear she was deeply loved. Sending condolences, strength, and love to her family and all who are grieving. 🤍🕊️”

Lisa Weintraub

“Rest in peace Mickey,” the season 26 alum wrote alongside a selfie of her and Mickey. “You are vibrant, bold, unbothered and a strong female entrepreneur. This is a heartbreaking loss for all that knew you. Miss you fellow vibe architect love your vibe curator 😥💕✨.”

Chelsie Baham

“Life is so short. I can’t believe this. RIP Mickey Lee 🕊️😔,” the season 26 winner shared via X alongside a snap of her and Mickey.

Derrick Levasseur

“Shocked to hear the news about Mickey. Another terrible reminder that we’re not promised tomorrow,” the season 16 champ penned via X. “My thoughts and prayers go out to Mickey’s friends and family.”

Tiffany Mitchell

“Rest peacefully babygirl. 🙏🏽🤍🕊️ Life is short, tomorrow is not promised, and every moment is a gift,” the Big Brother 23 alum wrote via X alongside a slideshow of her and Mickey at an event. “May the family, friends and loved ones of Mickey be covered by God’s grace. Love people, be kind, appreciate the small things, and be grateful.”

Josh Martinez

“Breaks my heart to hear the news about Mickey. May she rest in peace. Sending her family so much love and prayers 🙏🏽,” the season 19 winner wrote.

Janelle Pierzina

“Praying for Big Brother alumni Mickey’s family. She passed away yesterday. I can only imagine what her family is going through. RIP Mickey. #BB27 🙏,” the Big Brother legend tweeted.

Azah Awasum

“I am shaken. I didn’t get the chance to meet Mickey, but it was meaningful seeing someone my age navigate the game, and I loved watching her live so authentically after Big Brother,” the season 23 alum wrote via X. “I truly admired her drive. May she rest in paradise. Hold your loved ones a little closer today.”

Angela ‘Rockstar’ Lantry

“I’m just so sad for Mickey’s family, what a devastating loss,” the season 20 alum tweeted. “I’m sending out so much love right now. I am so glad Mickey had the opportunities she did this past year. And I hope it was filled with joy. I was so looking forward to meeting her at this years premiere in NYC.”

Ashley, 25, shared a screenshot of a text message she sent to Mickey, 35, via her Instagram Story on Friday, December 26, one day after Mickey died. The slide has since been deleted.

“My last text to Mickey,” she wrote over the screenshot. “I felt called to reach out to her for some reason a few weeks ago…and I’m so glad I did.”

Ashley blacked out a portion of the text message, but from what she shared, it appears she was trying to reconcile with Mickey after the two went back and forth in interviews and via social media after the season ended.

‘Big Brother’ Winner Ashley Calls Out ‘Cry Baby’ Vince After Finale

“I didn’t really wanna approach it in public with fans around and stuff!” Ashley texted. “But I wanted to reach out because I honestly didn’t like the way things transpired between us and I did really care about you in the house. I don’t want beef w u and I don’t want the two black girls to be pit against each other. I don’t like that! So I wanted to be the bigger person and reach out to squash the 🥩.”

She later expanded in a post via X, writing, “I posted that because y’all continue to bash me saying I never liked mickey but that’s a lie….. I had nothing to gain from reaching out to her a few weeks ago, but peace of mind and a hope for rekindling. I can’t believe Mickey is really gone………..”

Ashley did not reveal if Mickey responded or if the two ever had a chance to hash things out.

Mickey died on Thursday, December 25, after being hospitalized due to complications from the flu that caused her to experience multiple cardiac arrests, according to statements from her family.

“The Big Brother family is heartbroken today,” producers Allison Grodner, Rich Meehan and Chris Roach wrote in a statement to Us Weekly on Friday. “Mickey was a stand out on the show and in life. A force of nature. A bright light and someone we are lucky to have had in our lives. Our thoughts are with her family on this sad day.”

‘Big Brother' Winner Ashley Explains Why She Channeled Elle Woods in Game

While Ashley wasn’t explicit about the meaning behind her text, it came after Mickey, who was Black, implied Ashley is not a “traditional Black girl.”

“I am 100 percent African American,” Mickey said in a September interview with Big Brother 24 winner Taylor Hale for Entertainment Tonight. “I come from areas where I do experience a lot of racism. I’ve never had a leg up in certain opportunities. I think I am the only one that experienced that. I do believe that Ashley is African American as well, but we do come from different backgrounds. When I say traditional Black girl, I mean the ones that people always stereotype.”

She later clarified her comments in an October video, saying, “Never did I ever say that I felt like I was the only real Black woman or the only Black woman on the show at all. What I did say was I felt like I was the only traditional Black woman in the house. And in hindsight, I definitely did use the wrong word choice and what I truly meant was stereotypical Black woman…All I was trying to express [that] I felt like the only Black woman, Black person in that house that was being treated through a stereotypical lens. And that’s it.”

Big Brother’s Julie Chen Moonves Reacts to Ashley’s Vote Redo Attempt

She added, “I didn’t have time to properly process or put together or properly express my thoughts at that moment. But under no circumstances was I ever trying to invalidate or devalue anyone else’s Blackness. I was really just trying to focus on my experience and how I felt.”

Ashley fired back on TikTok with a video on October 27, captioned, “When someone says you’re not ‘traditionally black’, meanwhile you have two black parents 💀😂🙄 hmm..”

The video featured Ashley lipsyncing to T-Pain’s song “Up Down (Do This All Day)” as she was joined by her parents.

“Looks like two Black parents to me,” she wrote over the video.

“Two months ago I interviewed Mickey Lee on ‘God 101,’” Chen Moonves wrote via Instagram on Friday, December 26. “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 🙏🏼.”

Lee died on Thursday, December 25, after being hospitalized following multiple cardiac arrests. She had been battling complications from the flu and was in “critical but stable” condition, her family reported on Monday, December 22.

Why Jimmy Blames Morgan Over Mickey for His 'Big Brother' Eviction

The family broke the news of Mickey’s death on Friday morning via her Instagram account.

“With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening,” their 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 statement 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 spent 59 days in the Big Brother house during the summer of 2025 and was the last player to be evicted before the jury phase began. She was best known for using her “HoH Interrogator” power to dethrone Rylie Jeffries and subsequently nominate him for eviction. She stumbled, however, when she was convinced to also nominate her ally, Jimmy Heagerty, who was ultimately evicted when Rylie, 27, won his way off the chopping block.

'Big Brother’ Host Julie Chen Moonves Reveals if She's Going to Retire

Mickey’s family had also launched a GoFundMe when they first revealed her illness in an effort to offset medical costs. As of Friday morning, it had raised more than $32,000.

“Many of you know Mickey Lee from Big Brother (CBS) where she became one of the most talked about houseguests on Season 27,” their statement read at the time. “A vibrant, strategic and unforgettable personality, Mickey captured the attention of fans with her energy, authenticity and bold gameplay. Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and based in Atlanta, Georgia, she brought charm and fierce competition to the Big Brother house as an event curator and creative force.”

Her fellow Big Brother 27 players began posting tributes to their fellow houseguest as the news began to spread.

Shocking Reality TV Tragedies Through the Years: U.K.'s Jake Hall, More

“Forever my girl. Rest in power, Micks,” Jimmy, 25, wrote via his Instagram Story over a photo of the two of them having a drink together.

“Was hoping for different news regarding Mickey,” fourth-place finisher Ava Pearl added via her Instagram Story. “A genuine tragedy for anyone to pass as young as she did, wishing her friends and family peace, respect, and privacy during this time. No matter what, we lost a member of the Big Brother family and she will be missed.”

Us Weekly has reached out to CBS for comment.

Mickey died in the early evening on Thursday, December 25, after being hospitalized due to multiple cardiac arrests as she battled complications from the flu.

“With profound sadness, the family of Mickey Lee announces her transition on Christmas in the early evening,” her family wrote in a statement released via social media on Friday, December 26.

“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 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.”

‘Big Brother’ Winners: Where Are They Now? Dan, Derrick, Dr. Will and More

Mickey played for 59 days in the Big Brother house and was the final houseguest to be evicted before the jury phase began. She was best remembered on the show for using her “HoH Interrogator” power to dethrone Rylie Jeffries as Head of Household. She then turned around and nominated Rylie, 27, for eviction, before he won his way off of the chopping block and Jimmy Heagerty went home instead.

Mickey’s family announced on Monday, December 22, that she was in “critical but stable condition” and “surrounded by medical professionals and loved ones” in the ICU. Their statement directed fans to a GoFundMe set up to help offset her medical costs.

“Many of you know Mickey Lee from Big Brother (CBS) where she became one of the most talked about houseguests on Season 27,” their statement read at the time. “A vibrant, strategic and unforgettable personality, Mickey captured the attention of fans with her energy, authenticity and bold gameplay. Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and based in Atlanta, Georgia, she brought charm and fierce competition to the Big Brother house as an event curator and creative force.”

The statement continued, “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.”

Shocking Reality TV Tragedies Through the Years: U.K.'s Jake Hall, More

Big Brother alumni, both from season 27 and earlier, have begun to share their condolences.

“This is absolutely horrible,” Big Brother 27’s Will Williams wrote via Instagram. “Life is so short. Mickey was an incredible spirit and a joy in the house. Prayers to her family. The big brother family will miss her dearly 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾.”

Big Brother 13 winner and season 27 houseguest Rachel Reilly-Villegas added,”Sorry for your loss and my prayers for your family RIP MICKEY you are missed – love to all of you 🙏.”

‘Big Brother’ and ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ Winners Through the Years

“When you watch BB you feel like you know the houseguests, so even though I didn’t know her, my heart breaks,” added Big Brother 21’s Tommy Bracco. “I’m so sorry for your loss. She was a very special person and she’ll be remembered always ❤️‍🩹”

Us Weekly has reached out to CBS for comment.

Over 27 seasons, Mickey is the third Big Brother player to have died. Big Brother 2 alum Kent Blackwelder died of a heart attack in 2017 at age 62, while Cassandra Waldon from Big Brother 1 died in 2019 at age 56 due to injuries sustained in a car accident.

“Wink if you’re freshly repaired 😉👅,” the Big Brother alum, 42, wrote via Instagram on Monday, December 22, alongside a selfie of him in a hospital bed. “Today I had a planned cervical spine surgery to relieve pressure on nerves in my neck that have been causing pain and neurological symptoms for a while.”

Frankie, who is the older brother of Wicked star Ariana Grande, shared that the surgery was a success.

“The procedure went exactly as expected, no surprises, no drama (for once 😅), just very precise work by an incredible medical team,” he continued. “They removed bone and tissue that were compressing the nerves, giving my spinal cord, disks, and radiating nerves the space it needs to heal and function properly.”

Frankie Grande Says Becoming Sober Helped Mend His Family Relationship

Following surgery, Frankie’s next steps include “four weeks of healing” and physical therapy.

“Now comes 4 weeks of healing, rest, physical therapy, and being nicer to my body than I usually am. MERRY CHRISTMAS! 😜,” he said. “I’m sore, I’m tired, but I’m safe, I’m relieved, and I’m already feeling hopeful. This was a necessary step so I can get back on my feet, back on stage, and back to living fully without pain running the show.”

Frankie also shared his appreciation for the “love, prayers, messages, and support” he’s received so far.

“Truly felt and deeply appreciated. This is healing in progress. 🦋✨,” he penned. “See you soon… stronger, steadier, and standing tall. 😘💫.”

Several of Frankie’s friends took to the comments section to wish him a speedy recovery, including Gloria Estefan, Carson Kressley, Deborah Cox and more.

“Wow! Heavy! Glad it went well and you’re all good. Someone to help spoon in the Christmas dinner this year?” singer Imogen Heap replied, to which Frankie responded that his husband, Hale Grande, was “all over it.”

Fellow Big Brother alum Rachel Reilly also sent well wishes Frankie’s way writing, “Healing energy and thoughts for a quick recovery 😍 happy to hear it all went well!!!! ❤️❤️.”

Last month, Frankie exclusively told Us Weekly how he and his family planned to celebrate their first holiday without their beloved nonna (real name Marjorie Grande) who died earlier this year at age 99.

Frankie Grande on How Family Will Celebrate 1st Holidays Without Nonna

“We have some ornaments that remind me of her, and there’s a picture of us that we’re gonna hang on the tree,” he shared in November adding that he and Ariana, 32, planned on making some of Nonna’s famous meals. “We’re gonna make Nonna’s meatballs and Nonna’s zeppole. So, she has a recipe that she passed down to my mother and then to me and to Ari, and we’ve been cooking it every year since she hasn’t been able to actually stand at the stove for the past few years.”

Frankie continued, “It will be very different making it without her there at all. But we know she’s there. She’s watching.”

Frankie joked that his nonna will “probably have notes” on what he and Ariana come up with in the kitchen.

During a recent Twitch livestream, Soto, 33, was asked about his connections to his former housemates post-show. He made an unsavory remark about Reilly, 41, Jimmy Heagerty and winner Ashley Hollis that circulated on social media.

“Rachel, Jimmy, Ashley outside the house … I love them as people, don’t get me wrong, but they’re trying to elevate their stardom by trying to bring down other people,” Soto claimed in a clip shared via X. “They’re trying to elevate themselves by bringing down other people, and I don’t f*** with that. You know what I mean? Why are you trying to talk bad on other people to try and raise yourself? If anything, you just make yourself look more irrelevant more than anything.”

Soto continued, “I feel like a lot of them realize they are irrelevant, so they feel like they have to maximize this window before next year starts, and they completely get forgotten about for them to have some sort of relevancy right now … Honestly, nobody really talks about them and for good reason. It is what it is.”

Rachel Reilly's Daughter Adora, 9, Wants to Be a 'Big Brother' Winner

After Soto’s remarks went viral, Reilly took to social media to subtly address the situation.

“Literally a mom of 2 kids who is out here trying to do the best job I can,” Reilly wrote via X on Wednesday, December 10. “Trying to give my kids a good life and provide them with a future and healthy food on the table. And for some boy child to come at me bc he was on a show with me — call me names and act like it’s OK is so disrespectful and gross.”

Reilly continued, “I’ve been nothing but nice I don’t talk bad about him esp not on a podcast — I’ve done this 15 years so trying to tear me down bc of your insecurities sure -but you’ll never be where I am bc of this type of behavior.”

While Reilly did not call out Soto by name, she did use the hashtag for their season of Big Brother.

Why 1 ‘Big Brother’ Fan Called Keanu a ‘Role Model’ After AFP Win

Reilly and Soto had their ups and downs during Big Brother season 27. While the pair found themselves butting heads most of the time, they formed a final two alliance named The Frenemies. Despite trying to work together neither one made it to the end. Reilly was the first member of the jury after she was eliminated during the shocking “White Locust” twist. Soto, for his part, came in fifth place after being evicted by the house.

On finale night, Reilly and Soto were contenders to be America’s Favorite Houseguest. Soto took home the honor and $50,000 cash prize awarded by viewers. After Soto was awarded the prize, Reilly opened up about how excited she was for him after she was named one of Us Weekly’s Reality Stars of the Year.

“I’m so excited for Keanu, he’s such a great comp beast, and he had a great journey through this season of Big Brother,” she exclusively told Us in October. “He and I had this frenemies Alliance, I guess. So I think it’s really fun that my one final two with the frenemies won America’s favorite and that my bestie and my real final two, Ashley won the whole season. I’m just so excited for them. And it’s, it’s so exciting to have such a great impact on the show this season.”

“Big Brother was born in controversy that has only ever continued to evolve with the show over time. From racist remarks and behaviors to threats of violence, expulsions, attempts at censorship and more,” Armstrong wrote in his new book, Behind the Mirror, which hit bookstands on Tuesday, November 25. “The live feeds have at least functioned as a safeguard against the worst the genre has to offer.”

Over the years, Armstrong has become a popular figure in the Big Brother fanbase as he provides daily updates about what’s going on in the house as a member of the “Rob Has a Podcast” (RHAP) team. (“RHAP” was created by Survivor alum Rob Cesternino and is a popular reality TV podcast that covers countless shows including Survivor, Big Brother, The Traitors and more.)

Armstrong added that while the Big Brother live feeds are a protective agent for the players and viewers, “there’s still plenty of room for improvement” as the show has continued to run for nearly three decades.

Why Lance Bass Would Never Go on ‘Big Brother’ Despite Being a Big Fan

Fans of Big Brother know all too well that there have been countless controversies surrounding the show over the years. In Behind the Mirror, Armstrong recalls the history of Big Brother, starting with the show’s early beginnings as an adaptation of the original Netherlands program before becoming the Americanized version fans know today. Armstrong also revisits the show’s countless controversial moments, from ones that fans will recognize from certain episodes to others that never made the final cut.

“There’s so much learning that you can do through the show. And one of the things that you can learn is the ways that other reality shows might be lying to you that you don’t even realize,” Armstrong exclusively told Us Weekly about why the live feeds make Big Brother special while discussing his book. “Because if you at least know the events of the feeds, you don’t need to watch them yourself. This is the main thing that a lot of people feel like, ‘Well, I’m not interested in the live feeds at all, because that’s way too much, or it might be boring.’ Most people are not watching the feeds. 24/7, most people are consuming the live feeds through social media or podcasts like mine, where they’re getting an update, sort of day to day, almost like you would a sports league.”

Armstrong also talked about how the game has evolved thanks to iconic players like Dr. Will Kirby, Dan Gheesling, Taylor Hale and more.

While Armstrong is aware that not all reality TV lovers will be intrigued by his coverage of the history of Big Brother, he hopes that “people will find something valuable” in what he wrote.

“[I’m] trying to find a place of acceptance that it will not be for everyone. Some people will come to it, looking for something that’s not there, especially because it’s about reality TV,” Armstrong said of what he hopes Big Brother fans will take away from his debut book. “If you come to this book looking for juicy secrets and details or whatever, or gossip, you know that’s not really what the book was intended to be. So I hope that the people that are able to get something out of it.”

‘Big Brother’ Controversies Through the Years

Armstrong started writing Behind the Mirror after season 24 ended in September 2022. The podcaster spent a lot of time researching the history behind the show while also speaking to other players about their experiences in the game, including Tiffany Mitchell, winner Steve Moses and more. While Armstrong is used to covering Big Brother in real-time, going back to the archives was an interesting experience.

“When a season is live, it’s very up and down, you know? And the way that I cover a season live, as I mentioned, I’m live every day, and so every day, I’m telling a story of what happened the previous day, while also telling the story,” he told Us. “Up until this point, I’m every day sort of reevaluating what is the story of the season and when you’re when you’re looking back, especially when you’re looking back at a huge swath of history, it’s a lot easier to see the through line for the stories that can be told about it, or at least the ones that that I that I cared about and really loved.”

Behind the Mirror is available now and the audiobook is narrated by Armstrong.

“Me greeting the trolls that body shamed me before revealing my twin pregnancy,” Franzel, 33, wrote alongside a Thursday, October 30, TikTok video.

Franzel started off the clip with a close-up to the camera. She wore a cozy sweater and her go-to top knot updo. The clip featured the viral soundbite from Teen Mom that featured Kailyn Lowry and Jo Rivera.

“It’s a beautiful day, isn’t it?” Franzel lip-synched. “You don’t deserve to be outside enjoying the sun.”

Big Brother's Nicole Franzel and Victor Arroyo’s Relationship Timeline

As the clip rolled, Franzel stepped back to show off her baby bump.

“You should be in a cave,” the audio concluded.

Fans flocked to the comments section to sympathize with Franzel and gush over her exciting news.

“That makes me so sad. There’s nothing more beautiful than a momma growing her babies in her belly. 💙🩷,” one user wrote, while another replied, “You look beautiful Nicole. You are glowing.”

Franzel is best known for competing on Big Brother seasons 16 and 18. In her second time playing, she was crowned the winner. During Big Brother 18, she also met her now-husband, Victor Arroyo.

While Franzel and Arroyo didn’t have a showmance during the game, their relationship blossomed outside the house. The pair formed a close friendship before their connection turned romantic. Arroyo and Franzel briefly returned to the Big Brother house during season 20 for the police officer’s romantic proposal.

Franzel and Arroyo tied the knot in March 2021. The pair welcomed their son, Arrow, now 4, four months later.

In August, Franzel and Arroyo announced that their family is expanding.

“We are PREGNANT 🥹!! Praise Jesus!! A HUGE thank you to those who have been praying alongside us for this miracle,” Franzel wrote via Instagram alongside a photo of herself sitting on a picnic blanket with Arroyo and Arrow. “3 years in waiting and God said it’s time 🥰🤍 our little family is growing!!”

Last month, Franzel and Arroyo revealed they are expecting twins.

“We were and are ecstatic. What a beautiful gift from God! I honestly felt so sick the first trimester and started showing around the 8-week mark, which, with my first pregnancy, I didn’t show until around 20 weeks,” Franzel told People. “I joked there must be two babies in there, and when there really was, I was happy-shocked. I’ve always wanted to have twins, and they run in my family!”

'Big Brother' Stars Nicole Franzel and Victor Arroyo's Cutest Family Moments

Arroyo added, “We’ve been trying to conceive for some time now, so this felt like a long-awaited gift.”

Earlier this year, Franzel and Arroyo exclusively spoke to Us Weekly, giving a glimpse into their lives in Michigan, which is where Franzel grew up.

“We’re still in the same town where I always lived. I’m super close to my family,” she told Us. “I love the seasons. I love the country life. I love rural life. We did buy a house with 10 acres, and we literally have a rescue farm in our backyard, and we just rescued a dog.”

“When a castmate from your season does an interview saying you’re not Black,” Ashley, 25 wrote alongside a Monday, October 27, TikTok video.

The clip featured Ashley standing in the middle of a room lipsyncing to T-Pain’s song “Up Down (Do This All Day).” After a few seconds, Ashley is joined by her parents.

“Looks like two Black parents to me,” Ashley wrote after her mom and dad popped up in the frame.

‘Big Brother’ Winner Ashley Calls Out ‘Cry Baby’ Vince After Finale

The trio ended the video by dancing together joyfully.

“When someone says you’re not ‘traditionally black’, meanwhile you have two black parents 💀😂🙄 hmm..,” the caption read.

While Ashley didn’t name who she was calling out in the TikTok video, Big Brother fans were quick to figure out she was referring to Mickey. Ashley and Mickey, both Black women, competed alongside each other on season 27. Mickey, 35, was voted out during the pre-jury phase of the game. Ashley, for her part, was crowned the season’s champion and took home the $750,000 prize.

After her eviction, Lee spoke to former winner Taylor Hale in an interview with Entertainment Tonight about her experience as a Black woman in the game.

“I am 100 percent African American,” Mickey said in September. “I come from areas where I do experience a lot of racism. I’ve never had a leg up in certain opportunities. I think I am the only one that experienced that. I do believe that Ashley is African American as well, but we do come from different backgrounds. When I say traditional Black girl, I mean the ones that people always stereotype.”

The following month, Mickey took to TikTok to clarify her remarks amid fan confusion.

‘Big Brother' Winner Ashley Explains Why She Channeled Elle Woods in Game

“Never did I ever say that I felt like I was the only real Black woman or the only Black woman on the show at all,” Mickey said in an October video. “What I did say was I felt like I was the only traditional Black woman in the house. And in hindsight, I definitely did use the wrong word choice and what I truly meant was stereotypical Black woman.”
Mickey continued, “All I was trying to express [that] I felt like the only Black woman, Black person in that house that was being treated through a stereotypical lens. And that’s it.”

Mickey claimed that she felt like she was “asked a lot of questions” about her hair being real, weaves, growing up in a single-parent household, food stamps, rap songs, twerking and more. Mickey added that she used the wrong word in her interview due to lack of sleep and exhaustion from her eviction.

“I didn’t have time to properly process or put together or properly express my thoughts at that moment,” she explained. “But under no circumstances was I ever trying to invalidate or devalue anyone else’s Blackness. I was really just trying to focus on my experience and how I felt.”