Jiggly Caliente, the RuPaul’s Drag Race star who also appeared on the TV show Pose, has died at the age of 44.
The performer’s family announced Caliente’s death Sunday on social media; while no cause of death was provided, her family revealed just days before her death that Caliente had her right leg amputated due to a severe infection.
“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 on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends,” Caliente’s family said in a statement.
“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.”
While Caliente only finished in eighth place on the fourth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012, the Philippines-born performer became a fan favorite, earning invitations to appear on seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked and RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars. For the past three years, Caliente also served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines.
“We are devastated by the passing of Jiggly Caliente, a cherished member of the ‘Drag Race’ family,” the show wrote on social media. “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.”
Caliente also appeared on TV shows like Broad City, Search Party, and Pose, playing the character Veronica Ferocity over two seasons.
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“Jiggly was so much person in one little body. She lived her life exactly how she wanted to— never taking a moment of it for granted,” Jinkx Monsoon wrote on social media. “She always reminded me to be grateful for every little gift our blessed lives give us. She never complained about touring— she loved this life. She accomplished so much in a relatively short time and we are all so proud of her. She hates it when I sing show tunes, but I got to sing her one last song: there’s no business like show business— it was just the chorus, but still, her eye-contact said: bitch, shut up. I love you Jiggly.”
Bob the Drag Queen wrote in a tribute, “She loved NYC, hip-hop, and men lol. I was lucky enough to tour, laugh, and cry with Jiggly over the years. I’ll miss our random calls to talk shit and laugh about stuff I could never share here. I loved watching you go from NYC Star to international drag sensation. We lost a real one today. Sis, you really did ‘retire with the crown.’”
Caliente’s family added, “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.”
From Rolling Stone US
