Lee Najjar, ‘Real Housewives’ ‘Big Poppa’, dies at 68 after years of mystery

Lee Najjar, known to viewers of The Real Housewives of Atlanta as the elusive “Big Poppa”, has died at the age of 68, according to multiple reports.

TMZ, citing the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner, reported that Najjar died on April 18.

His daughter, Katelin Najjar, confirmed the news in a series of Instagram posts, sharing tributes and memories of their time together.

“I loved when he wrote me cards, he knew it meant everything to me,” one message read.

The man behind ‘Big Poppa’

Najjar became widely known during the early seasons of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, where he was referenced as “Big Poppa” during Kim Zolciak’s storyline.

Despite being central to the drama, he remained almost entirely off-screen, with his identity never formally revealed at the time, adding to the intrigue around him.

His relationship with Zolciak became a defining part of the show’s early years, particularly as she credited him with funding her lavish lifestyle.

Relationship that sparked controversy

The romance also drew scrutiny, with other cast members questioning Najjar’s personal life and his relationship status at the time.

Reports indicated that he was still married to his wife, Kim Najjar, during his relationship with Zolciak. The couple share four children.

Cause of death not confirmed

The cause of Najjar’s death has not been publicly confirmed.

His passing has renewed attention around one of the show’s most talked-about and mysterious figures, with fans revisiting the storyline that helped shape its early success.