Trigger Warning: This article mentions death, reader discretion is advised.Lee Najjar, the real estate investor known to ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ viewers as Kim Zolciak’s ex-boyfriend “Big Poppa,” has died at age 68. Najjar’s daughter, Katelyn, confirmed her death on Instagram Stories on Tuesday. She posted a video of the two dancing in a car and captioned it, “I love you,” then shared a second image of herself in a black suit. The cause of his death has not been clarified. Najjar is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their children: Katelin, Jeremy, Jared and Jamen. His death has also renewed interest in his relationship with Zolciak, which became a major storyline in Season 1 of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ in 2008.
Rhoa star Kim Zolciak’s ex Lee Najjar has died aged 68
Page Six reported that Katelyn confirmed her father’s death on Instagram Stories, and TMZ reviewed Najjar’s history with Zolciak and past comments about her breakup. People previously published remarks from Zolciak about their relationship during and after the first season of the Bravo series.
Lee Najjar and Kim Zolciak’s relationship revisited
During Season 1 of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’, Zolciak did not publicly name Najjar on the show and instead referred to her as “Big Poppa”. At the time he was introduced as the man behind his luxurious lifestyle. Their relationship drew attention because Najjar was still legally married, although Zolcia said he was not with his wife.Speaking to People ahead of the Season 1 reunion, Zolcia said, “We got engaged. And she’s a great person.” He added: “It’s still part of my daily life at the moment. I don’t know what the future holds. I’m just crazy. And it’s great for my girls.”He also told the outlet, “He’s legally married, but he’s estranged from his wife,” and “sometimes things take time to work out.”The couple split in 2009, but Zolciak later told People they got back together the following year. TMZ also reported that when they broke up, Zolcia called Najjar “the love of my life” and said, “But it’s time to move on.”Zolciak was married to Daniel Toce from 2001 to 2003. She then married Kroy Biermann in 2011. They separated in 2023.
