The news of Jiggly Caliente death has shocked the drag and LGBTQ+ communities. Known offstage as Bianca Castro-Arabejo, Jiggly Caliente passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 a.m., surrounded by her family and closest friends. She was just 44 years old.
The heartbreaking announcement was made through her official Instagram account, where her family shared heartfelt words celebrating her life, her accomplishments, and the extraordinary energy she brought to the world.
A Life Filled with Art and Courage
Jiggly Caliente death comes after a tough battle with a serious infection. In the weeks leading up to her passing, Caliente underwent surgery that resulted in the loss of much of her right leg. Her family had previously informed fans that her recovery would be extensive and that she would be stepping back from public appearances, including her role as a judge on Drag Race Philippines.
Despite her health issues, Jiggly Caliente remained a symbol of resilience, known for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity. Throughout her career, she impacted countless lives through her performances, activism, and genuine interactions with her fans.
Road from the Philippines to International Stardom
Born in San Pedro, Philippines, in 1980, Jiggly Caliente moved to Queens, New York, as a child. Her chosen drag name, inspired by the Pokémon character Jigglypuff, hinted at the playful yet powerful presence she would become.
Her big break came in 2012, when she appeared on the fourth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Known for her humor and unforgettable moments, including the iconic “this ain’t RuPaul’s Best Friend Race” confrontation, she placed eighth in her season. She later returned for All Stars 6, showcasing her growth and continued passion for drag.
Expanding Her Talent Beyond Drag Race
Following her success on RuPaul’s Drag Race, Caliente explored acting, landing roles on hit shows like Pose, Broad City, and Search Party. On Pose, she played Veronica, a key character in a series that highlighted the vibrant and resilient ballroom culture of New York’s LGBTQ+ community in the 1980s and 1990s.
In 2022, Caliente joined the judging panel of Drag Race Philippines, where she served for three seasons. Her time on the show marked a turning point, bringing her experience and authenticity to a new generation of drag performers in her home country.
Jiggly Caliente’s passing not only marks the loss of a celebrated artist, but also of a fierce advocate who helped open doors for countless people.
A Pioneer of Trans Visibility
In 2016, Jiggly Caliente publicly came out as transgender, becoming an even more significant figure in the LGBTQ+ community. Her visibility and honesty about her journey inspired many and provided an important voice to conversations about transgender representation in entertainment.
Beyond her on-screen work, Caliente was also a musician, releasing her debut hip-hop album, T.H.O.T. Process, in 2018. Collaborating with drag legends like RuPaul, Sharon Needles, and Manila Luzon, she demonstrated her versatility and fearless creativity.
A Legacy of Love and Light
The outpouring of tributes following the news of Jiggly Caliente’s passing has been overwhelming. Drag queens, fans, and celebrities from around the world have shared memories and heartfelt messages, highlighting her kindness, authenticity, and the joy she brought to every space she visited.
In a world that often demands conformity, Jiggly Caliente stood out by being unapologetically herself. She was a pioneer who showed others that being true to oneself is not only brave, but also beautiful.
Although she is no longer with us, the love, courage, and light she brought to the world will continue to shine. Jiggly Caliente’s passing is a tremendous loss, but her spirit, her art, and her legacy will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her.
Rest in peace, Jiggly Caliente.
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