In a tragic turn of events, Jiggly Caliente, the beloved drag performer known for her vibrant personality and advocacy, passed away on April 27, 2025, at the age of 44. Born Bianca Castro-Arabejo, she died peacefully at 4:42 AM, surrounded by her loving family and close friends. The news of her death has sent shockwaves through the drag community and her fans worldwide.
Her family released a heartfelt statement, expressing their profound sorrow: "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... 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. She will be deeply missed, always loved and eternally remembered." This tribute reflects the deep impact she had on those around her, both in the entertainment world and beyond.
Following the announcement of Jiggly’s death, the official Instagram account of RuPaul’s Drag Race shared a tribute that resonated with many: "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." This acknowledgment from the show that propelled her to fame highlights the community's collective grief.
However, the response from RuPaul himself has been met with criticism from fans. Instead of a personal tribute, his latest Instagram post featured a lighthearted video of him making a fart sound, which many deemed inappropriate given the circumstances. One follower commented, "Ru, I love you, but posting this before a statement about Jiggly is so out of touch." Another added, "I love you Ru but you posted this before saying anything about Jiggly? She was one of your own. 💔" As of April 30, 2025, RuPaul has not issued a direct statement regarding Jiggly Caliente’s death. This lack of acknowledgment has left many fans feeling disappointed and confused.
In sharp contrast to the tributes, Tyra Sanchez, a notoriously controversial figure in the drag community, has faced backlash for her response to Jiggly's passing. Just days after the news, Sanchez retweeted an offensive illustration depicting a gravestone with the caption "here lies she who came for me," while filing her nails. This image, previously used to mock another drag queen's death, was seen by many as tasteless and disrespectful. Sanchez's post included a defiant message: "You mad cause I’m BREATHING. THRIVING. LIVING. Free from any danger. Free from any overdose. Stalking my posts just to report them. You can’t defeat me. Meanwhile your fav is in a coffin somewhere or snorting a line or idk gettin’ they leg cut off." Such comments have only intensified the backlash against her.
The international drag community has largely distanced itself from Sanchez, urging fans to do the same. Discussions on the Reddit forum RPDRDRAMA have resulted in moderators removing posts about her, stating, "I understand that this is something that we would’ve permitted in the sub at one point, but based on the platform this will give this person, we’ve decided it’s best not to allow this, and out of respect to Jiggly/Bianca." This indicates a growing sentiment within the community to hold individuals accountable for their actions, especially during sensitive times.
Another figure facing criticism for her response is Lady Bunny, a drag queen known for her provocative humor. Following Jiggly’s death, Bunny posted a photo of season 17 queen Joella wearing a mattress on the runway, captioned "RIP Jiggly." This post drew accusations of bad taste and possible racism, although Bunny’s content is often characterized by similar themes. This incident highlights the fine line between humor and insensitivity in the drag community, particularly when addressing the loss of a fellow performer.
Jiggly Caliente’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support during times of grief. Her contributions to the drag scene and her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights have left an indelible mark on many lives. As fans and fellow performers navigate their feelings of loss, the varying responses from prominent figures in the drag community underscore the complexities of public mourning and the expectations placed upon them.
As the drag community continues to process this loss, it remains crucial to honor Jiggly Caliente’s legacy. The outpouring of love and support from fans and peers alike illustrates the profound impact she had on those around her. While some may struggle to find the right words or actions in the wake of tragedy, the essence of Jiggly’s spirit—her joy, courage, and dedication to uplifting others—will undoubtedly continue to inspire many.
In the end, the conversations sparked by Jiggly’s death reflect broader themes of respect, accountability, and the ways in which we remember those we’ve lost. As the community comes together to celebrate her life, it is essential to focus on the love and light she brought into the world, ensuring that her legacy lives on in the hearts of many.
