Jiggly Caliente, the beloved star of RuPaul's Drag Race and a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, has passed away at the age of 44. Her family announced her death on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 AM, revealing that she died surrounded by her loving family and close friends. The news comes just days after they disclosed that she had undergone a leg amputation due to a severe infection.
Caliente, whose real name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo, first gained fame as a contestant on the fourth season of RuPaul's Drag Race in 2012, where she finished in eighth place. Her vibrant personality and fierce performances quickly made her a fan favorite. She later returned to the franchise for All Stars season six in 2021, showcasing her growth as a performer.
In a heartfelt statement shared on her official Instagram account, her family expressed profound sorrow over her passing. "It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known to the world and cherished by many as Jiggly Caliente. Bianca passed away peacefully... surrounded by her loving family and close friends," they wrote.
The family also reflected on Caliente's legacy, stating, "A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity. She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world." They emphasized that her joy, love, courage, and light would have a lasting impact, saying, "She will be deeply missed, always loved, and eternally remembered."
Just days before her death, on April 24, her family had shared an update regarding her health, stating that she had experienced a serious setback that required hospitalization and the amputation of most of her right leg. They noted that her recovery would be extensive and asked for privacy as she focused on healing.
Caliente was not only a fixture on Drag Race but also made significant contributions to television and the arts. She portrayed Veronica Ferocity in the critically acclaimed FX series Pose, which depicted the vibrant ballroom culture of the 1980s and 1990s in New York City. Her role in Pose allowed her to showcase her talent to a broader audience, appearing in 12 episodes over the show's three-season run.
In 2022, Caliente became a judge on the Filipino version of Drag Race, where she continued to inspire and uplift the next generation of drag performers. She served in this role until 2024, further solidifying her place within the Drag Race family.
Throughout her life, Caliente was an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and often spoke about her experiences as a transgender woman. In a 2016 interview, she came out as transgender on the Grizzly Kiki podcast, sharing her journey and the importance of representation. "I never saw anyone like me growing up," she stated in a 2024 interview, emphasizing the significance of her role in Pose as a milestone for trans visibility.
Caliente was born on November 29, 1980, in San Pedro, Philippines, and moved to the United States at the age of 10 with her mother and brother. Her drag name was inspired by Jigglypuff, a character from the popular Pokémon franchise, reflecting her playful and vibrant personality.
Her contributions to the arts and her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community earned her a special place in the hearts of many. Following her death, tributes poured in from fans and fellow performers alike. Michelle Visage, a judge on Drag Race, shared her grief on Instagram, writing, "My jiggles... The laughter was endless, our talks were special, your energy was contagious. You were and remain so very loved. This world has lost an angel and we want you to soar high.....I love you so much honey."
Other members of the Drag Race community also paid tribute to her, including fellow contestants and judges who expressed their love and admiration for Caliente. Jujubee, a competitor from earlier seasons, remembered her fondly, saying, "I love you, my sister. I will forever remember our giggles together. I’m so grateful we met this lifetime."
The official Drag Race social media account shared a statement mourning her loss: "We are devastated by the passing of Jiggly Caliente, a cherished member of the Drag Race family. Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to slay—always. We’re holding her family, friends, and fans close in our hearts during this difficult time."
As the community mourns the loss of a vibrant star, Jiggly Caliente's legacy as a performer, advocate, and beloved friend will undoubtedly continue to inspire many. Her infectious spirit and unwavering authenticity have left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her and those who admired her from afar.
