The reality television community is mourning the loss of Lee Najjar, the enigmatic businessman famously known as "Big Poppa" from The Real Housewives of Atlanta. His daughter, Katelin Najjar, confirmed his passing on social media this week. He was 68 years old.
"It's so hard to imagine life without Lee," a close friend wrote in a tribute shared by Katelin, "but who he was and what he meant to those who knew and loved him will never leave."
Najjar gained notoriety as the secretive benefactor of former RHOA star Kim Zolciak during the show's early seasons. While his identity was initially concealed on camera—referred to only by his nickname—he was known for funding Zolciak's luxurious lifestyle with extravagant gifts and international travel before their split in 2009.
Details surrounding his death remain private, though reports indicate he passed away on April 18. Katelin Najjar honored her father's memory by posting heartfelt videos to her Instagram Stories, captioning one with a simple, "I love you."
Despite his reclusive public persona, those close to him described a devoted family man. Friends noted his deep love for his wife, Kimberly, and their children, including Katelin, Jared, Jeremy, and Jamen.
Kim Zolciak, who later married former NFL player Kroy Biermann, once reflected on her relationship with Najjar, telling Us Weekly in 2009, "At the end of the day, he will always be the love of my life, but it's time for me to move on." Zolciak and Biermann, who share six children, are currently navigating a divorce.
Lee Najjar's legacy endures through the memories of his family and his unforgettable, albeit brief, cameo in reality TV history.