Lee Najjar, the real‑estate investor who earned the nickname “Big Poppa” during his brief romance with former Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kim Zolciak, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 68. The news was confirmed by Najjar’s daughter Katelin, who posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram.
Family Shares Final Memories
Katelin posted a video of herself and her father dancing in a car, set to the 2016 track “Dancing in the Sky.” The clip was accompanied by a simple caption: “I love you,” and a dove and broken‑heart emoji. In a separate post, she shared a photo of Najjar in a classic black suit, offering a quiet glimpse into the man’s personal style.
While the exact cause of death has not yet been disclosed, the family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and friends. Najjar is survived by his wife Kimberly and their four children: Katelin, Jeremy, Jared, and Jamen.
From Reality TV to Real Estate
Najjar first entered the public eye in 2008 when he appeared on the first season of Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA). He was introduced as Kim Zolciak’s boyfriend, a relationship that quickly became a focal point of the show. Zolciak, who had already gained fame for her outspoken personality and lavish lifestyle, referred to Najjar as “Big Poppa,” a moniker that stuck with viewers and became part of the show’s lore.
Despite the media attention, Najjar kept his personal life largely private. He was married to Kimberly at the time of his appearance on RHOA, though the couple was reportedly separated. The couple’s relationship with Zolciak was described as “on‑again, off‑again,” and the pair were even engaged at one point, according to Zolciak’s own statements during the Season 1 reunion special.
After the show, Najjar focused on his real‑estate business, building a reputation as a savvy investor. He was known for his hands‑on approach and his willingness to fund projects that could transform neighborhoods. His nickname, “Big Poppa,” was a nod to his generous spirit and his role as a benefactor for many of his friends and associates.
Kim Zolciak’s Reflections on the Relationship
In interviews, Zolciak has often spoken about the impact Najjar had on her life. She described him as the “love of her life” and praised his character, saying, “He’s a great person.” Zolciak also acknowledged that their relationship was complicated by Najjar’s marital status, noting that he was “estranged from his wife” and that “sometimes things take a while to move forward.”
Despite the challenges, Zolciak maintained that Najjar remained a part of her everyday life. She expressed uncertainty about the future but emphasized her enduring affection for him, stating, “I’m crazy about him. And he’s great to my girls.” These comments illustrate the deep emotional connection that persisted even after their romantic involvement ended.
Legacy and Impact
Najjar’s death marks the loss of a figure who bridged the worlds of reality television and real‑estate entrepreneurship. While his time on RHOA was brief, it left a lasting impression on fans who followed his journey from a charismatic benefactor to a respected investor.
Beyond his business ventures, Najjar was known for his philanthropic efforts. He frequently supported local charities and community projects, often using his resources to help those in need. His legacy will likely be remembered not only for his business acumen but also for his generosity and commitment to giving back.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was Lee Najjar’s role on RHOA? He appeared as Kim Zolciak’s boyfriend during the first season, where he was introduced as a supportive partner who helped fund her lifestyle.
- Was Najjar ever married? Yes, he was married to Kimberly, though the couple was separated at the time of his appearance on the show.
- What is known about his cause of death? The cause has not yet been publicly disclosed.
- How has the family responded? His daughter Katelin shared tribute posts on Instagram, expressing love and gratitude for the support received.
- What was Najjar’s business focus? He was a real‑estate investor who specialized in property development and community revitalization projects.
Lee “Big Poppa” Najjar’s passing is a reminder of the complex lives that unfold behind the cameras. His influence on Kim Zolciak’s early career, his dedication to real‑estate development, and his charitable work will continue to resonate with those who knew him and those who followed his story.
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