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Jiggly Caliente, a vibrant figure in the drag community and a notable contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race, has tragically passed away at the age of 44. Her family reported that her death occurred just days after she suffered a severe health crisis, which led to the amputation of her leg.
The heartbreaking announcement came on Sunday, shared via Instagram by her family. Jiggly Caliente, whose birth name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo, was loved by many for her charisma and talent.
“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Bianca Castro-Arabejo, better known to the world as Jiggly Caliente. Bianca passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends,” the family stated.
Described as a sensational presence in the realms of entertainment and advocacy, her family emphasized her infectious spirit, sharp wit, and genuine nature. They expressed that she significantly impacted countless lives through her artistry and activism, creating heartfelt connections with fans worldwide.
Jiggly’s legacy is characterized by love, bravery, and brightness. Though she is no longer with us, the joy she spread and the supportive spaces she nurtured will live on forever. Her family concluded their tribute by stating, “She will be deeply missed, always loved, and eternally remembered.”
Tragically, just before her passing, her family revealed that Caliente had been battling serious health issues. A post shared on Instagram prior to her death mentioned that she had experienced significant health difficulties following a severe infection.
“[We] are heartbroken to share that over the last month, Bianca has experienced a serious health setback,” the message read. “Due to a severe infection, she required hospitalization and ultimately underwent the loss of most of her right leg,” the family elaborated on April 24.
Furthermore, due to the severity of her health challenges, Bianca’s family confirmed that she would not be appearing in the new season of RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines, nor would she engage in public activities for the foreseeable future as her recovery would require significant time and effort.
The Journey of a Trailblazer
Jiggly Caliente first gained fame as a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race during the show’s fourth season in 2011. Her powerful presence on the show endeared her to fans, leading to her role as a judge on Drag Race Philippines starting in 2022, where she served for three successful seasons.
Born in the Philippines, Jiggly’s impact extended beyond drag competition. She showcased her acting talents on various television platforms, appearing in productions such as FX’s Pose, Search Party, and Saturday Night Live. Her versatility and passion for performance made her a cherished personality in the entertainment industry.
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
In light of her passing, fans and fellow performers have taken to social media, sharing heartfelt tributes and memories of how Jiggly’s work inspired them. Many remember her as a beacon of strength, courage, and authenticity in a world that often challenges individuals to conform.
Jiggly’s advocacy work in the LGBTQ+ community also set her apart. She encouraged countless others to embrace their uniqueness and to fight for their rights. By doing so, she underscored the importance of visibility and representation, making strides toward acceptance and love for all.
The outpouring of love publicly displays the profound impact Jiggly Caliente had on her fans and the community at large. The stories shared paint a vivid picture of her resilience, passion, and indomitable spirit.
Remembering Jiggly Caliente
As we reflect on her exceptional journey, it is vital to honor her memory by continuing her fight for equality and self-acceptance. Jiggly Caliente has left an unmistakable mark on the drag and LGBTQ+ community, and her influence will undoubtedly inspire future generations.
In the coming days and weeks, as tributes pour in from all corners of the globe, it is essential to remember Jiggly not just for her roles and accolades, but for the love and enlightenment she brought into the lives of many. The pain of her loss is profound, yet her legacy of joy and courage will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
