In brief
Jiggly Caliente, the iconic drag star from RuPaul's Drag Race, has died at 44 after complications from a severe infection. Celebrated for her infectious energy and authenticity, her passing has sparked tributes from friends and fellow performers who remember her for her kindness and impactful presence in the LGBTQ+ community.
Bianca Castro-Arabejo, famously known as Jiggly Caliente, has tragically passed away at the age of 44, as confirmed by her family. The drag superstar rose to fame on the fourth season of RuPaul's Drag Race and was celebrated for her role as a judge on the Philippines spin-off of the show. Just days before her death, Caliente had to undergo an amputation due to complications from a severe infection.In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, her family expressed their deep sorrow, stating, "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." They noted that she died early on Sunday morning surrounded by her family and close friends. Caliente was remembered for her vibrant spirit and courageous authenticity. Her family highlighted her impactful legacy of "love, courage, and light," emphasizing how she connected with countless fans through her artistry and activism. "Though her physical presence is gone, the joy she shared and the space she helped create for so many will remain forever,” they added.Fellow drag queens took to social media to honor the performer, sharing personal tributes that celebrated her kind-hearted nature. Laganja Estranja described Caliente as a "kind, caring soul," while Baga Chipz called her "one of the kindest, sweetest souls I've ever met." Other tributes came from Cheryl The Queen and Tia Kofi, who recounted their admiration and support for the drag icon.RuPaul's Drag Race judge Michelle Visage expressed her affection in a tribute, sharing, "the laughter was endless, our talks were special, your energy was contagious." She articulated the collective sense of loss for a soul who, as she put it, was "so very loved." Born in the Philippines in 1980, Caliente moved to New York City's Queens neighborhood as a child. She quickly became a fan favorite on Drag Race due to her humor and notable moments on the show. One memorable encounter led to the popular catchphrase, "this is not RuPaul's Best Friend Race," coined by a fellow contestant during a heated moment.Beyond her reality TV success, Caliente pursued advanced acting roles, making appearances in critically acclaimed series such as Broad City and Pose, where she starred as Veronica, depicting the rich LGBT ball culture of the 1980s and 90s. Additionally, she publicly came out as transgender in 2016 and eventually returned to the Drag Race scene, competing in the sixth season of All Stars in 2021 and judging the Drag Race Philippines series for three seasons.In recent days, her family revealed that she had experienced a "serious health setback" leading to the loss of "most of her right leg." Jiggly Caliente's legacy endures in the hearts of her fans and loved ones, forming an indelible mark on the world of drag and LGBTQ+ culture.
