GONE TO SOON

Kim Zolciak’s Ex Lee ‘Big Poppa’ Najjar Dies Aged 68

Lee Najjar, the Atlanta real estate investor linked to The Real Housewives of Atlanta and once romantically involved with Kim Zolciak, died on April 18, his daughter Katelin confirmed.

Key Points

PublishedApril 22, 2026 10:33 PM
UpdatedApril 22, 2026 10:33 PM

LEE Najjar, known to Real Housewives of Atlanta fans as Kim Zolciak’s mysterious ex and sugar daddy, has died aged 68.

The Atlanta real estate investor passed away on April 18, confirmed by his daughter Katelin through emotional Instagram tributes.

Najjar’s death was also verified by the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner, though the cause remains undisclosed.

He gained notoriety during the early seasons of RHOA as the man behind Kim’s lavish lifestyle, despite reportedly being married to another woman at the time.

Lee and his wife had two children, Katelin and Jeremy Najjar.

Though he was never fully shown on camera, Najjar’s presence was a key part of the show’s early drama and helped make Housewives essential viewing.

Kim once said in 2009, “He will always be the love of my life, but it’s time for me to move on,” shortly before his identity became public knowledge.

Najjar’s passing marks the end of a chapter for fans who remember the intrigue he brought to reality TV’s early days.