Jiggly Caliente Death: Facts and Tributes

Jiggly Caliente Death: A Tribute to a Drag Icon

Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known as Jiggly Caliente, died on April 27, 2025, at 44. A severe infection forced doctors to amputate most of her right leg. Her family announced her passing on Instagram. Jiggly’s vibrant energy, sharp wit, and fearless authenticity transformed drag and entertainment. Her death shocked the drag community and fans worldwide.

A Star on “RuPaul’s Drag Race”

Jiggly Caliente shone on Season 4 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2012. Born on November 29, 1980, in San Pedro, Philippines, she moved to New York in 1991. She chose the stage name Jiggly Caliente, inspired by the pink Pokémon Jigglypuff. Her bubbly personality and glamorous looks won fans. She delivered humor, dynamic dances, and iconic lip-syncs. Jiggly once called out contestant Lashauwn Beyond’s makeup skills, sparking the famous line, “This is not RuPaul’s Best Friend Race!”

She finished eighth but left a lasting mark. Jiggly returned for “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” and judged “Drag Race Philippines” from 2022. She mentored new talent, especially Filipino drag artists. Her presence boosted Asian representation in the franchise.

A Trailblazer Beyond the Stage

Jiggly’s influence reached beyond drag. As a transgender woman, she advocated for LGBTQ+ rights. She championed inclusivity and authenticity. In a 2018 Billboard interview, she celebrated seeing her real name, Bianca Castro, in the credits for her “Pose” role as a shopkeeper. “Seeing ‘Bianca Castro’ instead of ‘Jiggly Caliente’ felt amazing,” she said. This moment highlighted her journey of self-acceptance.

Her activism inspired fans and peers. In 2024, Jiggly joined a Capitol Hill press conference for LGBTQ+ rights. Her bold spirit encouraged countless people to embrace their identities and chase their dreams.

The Final Days

Weeks before her death, Jiggly battled a severe infection. Doctors amputated most of her right leg. Her family shared updates on Instagram. Despite her condition, Jiggly stayed strong. She passed peacefully at 4:42 a.m. on April 27, 2025, with loved ones by her side. The cause of death remains undisclosed, but X posts suggest sepsis. Her illness progressed rapidly.

Her passing triggered widespread grief. Michelle Visage, a “Drag Race” judge, wrote on Instagram, “Jiggly, your laughter was endless, your energy contagious. I love you.” The “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Instagram account posted, “Jiggly Caliente’s talent and truth touched us all. Her legacy will slay forever.”

A Legacy of Love and Light

Tributes from peers capture Jiggly’s impact. Jinkx Monsoon, Season 5 winner, said, “Jiggly lived fully, never wasting a moment.” Marina Summers, from “Drag Race Philippines,” called her “Ate Bianca” and hoped she felt loved. June Jambalaya, Jiggly’s “drag daughter” from Season 14, wrote, “You were my safe place, my compass.”

World of Wonder, the “Drag Race” producer, stated, “Jiggly’s humor and light uplifted many. Her legacy will inspire communities she championed.” These words show her profound influence on those she met and millions of fans.

Celebrating Jiggly’s Life

We mourn Jiggly Caliente’s loss but celebrate her incredible life. She performed with joy, broke barriers for trans and Filipino representation, and shared warmth with everyone. Her family’s statement read, “We will deeply miss her, always love her, and eternally remember her.”

Fans can honor Jiggly by supporting LGBTQ+ rights or celebrating drag. Her legacy lives in every inspired performer, uplifted fan, and shared laugh.

Rest in power, Jiggly Caliente. Your light shines on.

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🏷️ Tags: Jiggly Caliente, Drag Race, LGBTQ+, RuPaul’s Drag Race, Pose TV Series, Drag Queen, Celebrity News, Transgender Visibility, Mental Health, Pop Culture