Jiggly Caliente from RuPaul’s Drag Race passed away at age 44.
“The family of Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month, Bianca has experienced a serious health setback,” which led to her untimely death.
ICYMI:
The Pink News reported “Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg.”
The statement confirmed Jiggly would not be appearing in the upcoming season of Drag Race Philippines. “Nor will she be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future.” It added that her “recovery will be extensive.”
Unfortunately for the Bianca, her friends and family, and her massive fan base, she didn’t make it to recovery.
The announcement:
After battling a “severe infection, Castro-Arabejo was hospitalized,” her family said Thursday in an Instagram post. She underwent surgery and lost “most of her right leg.”
She passed away on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am. Jiggly was surrounded by her loving family and close friends.
“A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity,” her family said in their statement.
“She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world.”
“Her legacy is one of love, courage, and light. Though her physical presence is gone, the joy she shared and the space she helped create for so many will remain forever.”
Jiggly Caliente’s legacy:
Bianca, whose stage name comes from the Pokémon character Jigglypuff, competed on Season 4 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, in 2012. She placed eighth but became a fan favorite for her humor and dance moves.
Jiggly later returned to compete on “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” Season 6 and finished in 12th place.
Later, Jiggly served as a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines for three seasons. She was slated to appear in the upcoming season of Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale.
Additionally, she played Veronica Ferocity, a clothing store owner and drag performer, in the series Pose, a drama dance musical set in 1980s-era New York City created by Ryan Murphy. (Pose is one of the most important shows I’ve ever watched. I can’t recommend it enough!)
