Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known as Jiggly Caliente, has died at the age of 44 from complications related to a severe infection.
Jiggly Caliente, Beloved Drag Star, Passes Away at 44
Jiggly Caliente, Beloved Drag Star, Passes Away at 44
Drag Race legend and Pose actress Jiggly Caliente has died after a health battle, leaving behind a legacy of love and artistry.
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Renowned drag performer Bianca Castro-Arabejo, famously known as Jiggly Caliente, has tragically passed away at the age of 44, her family confirmed. The media personality, celebrated for her enchanting presence on the fourth season of RuPaul's Drag Race, faced health challenges leading to an amputation of part of her leg shortly before her death.
In an emotional statement shared on Instagram, her family expressed their deep sorrow, stating that Bianca died surrounded by her loving family and friends in the early hours of Sunday. They highlighted her vibrant energy, fierce wit, and authenticity, stating that she leaves behind a remarkable legacy filled with love, courage, and light.
Jiggly's impact on the drag community and the world was evident through heartfelt tributes from her fellow queens. Laganja Estranja, who appeared on Drag Race's sixth season, remembered Caliente as a “kind, caring soul.” Baga Chipz, from Drag Race UK, referred to her as “one of the kindest, sweetest souls I've ever met.” Other tributes flooded social media as fellow competitors and fans honored her loving spirit.
Born in the Philippines in 1980, Jiggly moved to Queens, New York, as a child where she developed her craft and humor. She became a beloved competitor on Drag Race in 2012, remembered for her iconic quips and her role that inspired catchphrases still echoed in the show today. After her Drag Race stint, she ventured into acting, making memorable appearances in Broad City and Search Party, and taking on the role of Veronica in the acclaimed series Pose, which showcased LGBT ball culture.
Coming out as transgender in 2016 added to her inspiring story, as she continued to represent and advocate for the community. Jiggly made a grand return to the Drag Race franchise in 2021 for RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars and served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines for three successful seasons. Just days before her passing, her family revealed that she experienced a critical health crisis that led to her leg amputation.
Jiggly Caliente is remembered not only for her talent but also for the deep connections she fostered with fans and peers alike, a true trailblazer who will be missed dearly by those whose lives she touched.
Renowned drag performer Bianca Castro-Arabejo, famously known as Jiggly Caliente, has tragically passed away at the age of 44, her family confirmed. The media personality, celebrated for her enchanting presence on the fourth season of RuPaul's Drag Race, faced health challenges leading to an amputation of part of her leg shortly before her death.
In an emotional statement shared on Instagram, her family expressed their deep sorrow, stating that Bianca died surrounded by her loving family and friends in the early hours of Sunday. They highlighted her vibrant energy, fierce wit, and authenticity, stating that she leaves behind a remarkable legacy filled with love, courage, and light.
Jiggly's impact on the drag community and the world was evident through heartfelt tributes from her fellow queens. Laganja Estranja, who appeared on Drag Race's sixth season, remembered Caliente as a “kind, caring soul.” Baga Chipz, from Drag Race UK, referred to her as “one of the kindest, sweetest souls I've ever met.” Other tributes flooded social media as fellow competitors and fans honored her loving spirit.
Born in the Philippines in 1980, Jiggly moved to Queens, New York, as a child where she developed her craft and humor. She became a beloved competitor on Drag Race in 2012, remembered for her iconic quips and her role that inspired catchphrases still echoed in the show today. After her Drag Race stint, she ventured into acting, making memorable appearances in Broad City and Search Party, and taking on the role of Veronica in the acclaimed series Pose, which showcased LGBT ball culture.
Coming out as transgender in 2016 added to her inspiring story, as she continued to represent and advocate for the community. Jiggly made a grand return to the Drag Race franchise in 2021 for RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars and served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines for three successful seasons. Just days before her passing, her family revealed that she experienced a critical health crisis that led to her leg amputation.
Jiggly Caliente is remembered not only for her talent but also for the deep connections she fostered with fans and peers alike, a true trailblazer who will be missed dearly by those whose lives she touched.
