What happened to Real Housewives’ 'Big Poppa' Lee Najjar?
Lee Najjar, the mystery ‘Big Poppa’ of Real Housewives fame, dies aged 68
Lee Najjar, the secretive businessman best known to Real Housewives of Atlanta fans as Kim Zolciak’s mysterious “Big Poppa,” has died aged 68, his family has confirmed.
His daughter Katelin Najjar shared the sad news on Instagram Stories on April 20, posting emotional tributes and clips of cherished moments with her father.
One post showed a broken heart emoji alongside the words, “I love you.”
According to the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner, Najjar passed away on April 18.
It's worth noting that his cause of death has not yet been made public.
He became an unlikely reality TV talking point when RHOA first aired in 2008.
Viewers were intrigued by the lavish lifestyle surrounding Kim Zolciak, who at the time was being quietly supported by an unnamed wealthy partner she only ever referred to as “Big Poppa.”
That man was later revealed to be Najjar, a successful real estate developer.
Their romance, which included luxury gifts and exotic holidays, ended in 2009.
At the time, Najjar was still married to his wife Kimberly Najjar, with whom he had four children, Katelin, Jared, Jeremy and Jamen.
Following the news of his death, tributes have poured in from friends and family, remembering him as a devoted father and a man who deeply loved those close to him.
One family friend wrote that it was “hard to imagine life without Lee,” adding that his warmth and presence would be remembered by all who knew him.
After her split from Najjar, Kim Zolciak went on to marry former NFL player Kroy Biermann in 2011, before the pair separated in 2023.
Despite their breakup, Kim once admitted in 2009 that Najjar would always hold a special place in her heart, saying: “At the end of the day, he will always be the love of my life… but it’s time for me to move on.”
