Tragic news for “Real Housewives of Atlanta” fans: Lee Najjar, the man famously known as Kim Zolciak’s mysterious “Big Poppa,” has reportedly died. He was 68.
His daughter, Katelin Najjar, confirmed the news with an emotional tribute and a slate of pictures of them together posted on her Instagram Stories. Lee’s cause of death remains unknown.
Najjar, a wealthy Atlanta real estate mogul, was a pivotal figure in the early days of RHOA, bankrolling Kim’s extravagant lifestyle while he was still married. His unseen presence and the secrecy surrounding their relationship became one of the show’s most defining and talked-about storylines.
The mogul passed away on April 18 as confirmed by The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner.
Lee Najjar Will be Deeply Missed by His Family
Beyond his connection to reality television, “Big Poppa” is also remembered by those closest to him. Najjars is survived by his wife, Kimberly and children Katelin and Jeremy Najjar.
A family friend shared her thoughts and condolences on Instagram. She said,
“He loved Kimberly and all of his kids so deeply. I’ve heard the story of how he and Kim met so many times, and it never once got old.” She continued, “Not only was Lee a smart businessman, he was genuinely funny. I’m going to miss his one-liners and his sense of humor so much. He was incredibly witty and passed that trait down to Katelin.”
She added, “I know we’ll continue talking about him and keeping his memory alive forever.”
His family life has remained largely private despite his association with “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.”
Remembering ‘Big Poppa’ as ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ Fans Reflect on His Impact
On “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” Najjars became a memorable off-screen presence tied to Kim Zolciak-Biermann during the show’s early seasons. Though never fully shown on camera, he was frequently referenced throughout her storyline, with his identity remaining largely private at the time.
Throughout the first two seasons of the show, Najjars allegedly gifted a Range Rover, a townhouse, and numerous other lavish items, all paid for by the elusive figure.
The mystery surrounding him, paired with his connection to some of the show’s most talked-about moments, helped certify “Big Poppa” as one of the franchise’s most recognizable unseen figures.
Fans React to the Tragic News & Send Condolences
Fans are responding to the news via Instagram comments, reflecting on his impact on the show. Outside of initial shock at this moment being his public reveal to some, an outpouring of love was shown. There was also some shock that he is actually handsome. One comment said,
“Oh no.. not big poppa.. too bad we’re meeting him under these circumstances”
While others shared, “We’ll never forget big poppa” and “📞 Thank you, Big Poppaaa!🕊️.”
While details about his personal life have not been widely shared, those who knew him best continue to honor his memory and the life he built away from the spotlight.
He will be especially remembered by Bravo fans. We are sending love to the Najjar family.