“RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Jiggly Caliente has died. She was 44.
Caliente, whose actual identify is Bianca Castro, handed away after she was hospitalized for a “severe infection” and had certainly one of her legs amputated.
The tragic information was introduced Sunday through an Instagram assertion from Caliente’s household.
“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,” the assertion learn. “Bianca passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends.”
“A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity,” the household continued. “She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world.”
The tribute 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.”
Stars from the “Drag Race” neighborhood together with Gottmik, Courtney Act, Mistress Isabelle Brooks, DeJa Skye, Melinda Verga, Alexis Michelle and extra reacted to Caliente’s loss of life within the feedback part.
Caliente got here in eighth place on Season 4 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2012. She returned for “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” Season 6 in 2021, the place she positioned twelfth.
In 2022, Caliente turned a choose on “Drag Race Philippines” for 3 seasons. She was born within the Philippines.
Her drag identify was named after the Pokémon character, Jigglypuff.
Caliente’s household introduced Thursday that she had her leg amputated after she “experienced a serious health setback.”
“Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg,” the household’s assertion learn.
“Because of these circumstances, Bianca will not be appearing in the upcoming season of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines,’ nor will she be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future,” the message continued. “Her recovery will be extensive.”
Caliente’s household requested followers for privateness and mentioned that the fact star was concentrated “on healing.”
Along with her “Drag Race” profession, Caliente had a recurring position on the FX collection “Pose” as Veronica Ferocity. She additionally appeared on “Search Party” and “Saturday Night Live.”
