Jiggly Caliente, ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Star, Dies at 44 After Hospitalization
NEW YORK — Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known to fans as Jiggly Caliente from the RuPaul’s Drag Race franchise, has tragically passed away at the age of 44. Her death comes just days after her family reported she was hospitalized due to a severe infection, which led to a leg amputation.
Jiggly Caliente’s family shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, confirming her death early Sunday morning. They described her as “a luminous presence” in both entertainment and activism, remembered for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity.
Her legacy lives on through her artistry and the deep connection she made with fans worldwide. Jiggly’s influence extended far beyond the stage—she was a beacon for advocacy and a role model for many, especially within the LGBTQ+ community.
Jiggly Caliente’s rise to fame began with RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4, where she made her mark as a talented contestant. She returned for RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars in the subsequent seasons, proving her lasting impact on the franchise. In 2022, she was selected as a judge on Drag Race Philippines, showcasing her role as both a mentor and an icon within the drag community.
However, just prior to her passing, Jiggly had to cancel her appearance in the upcoming season due to her hospitalization and the surgery she underwent.
Born in the Philippines and later immigrating to New York, Jiggly’s drag career spanned nearly two decades. She began her journey in the drag scene by competing in pageants and local performances, but it wasn’t just about entertainment for her—her heritage was always a central part of her work.
In 2018, Jiggly released a hip-hop album titled T.H.O.T. Process, with a track where she rapped in Tagalog, celebrating both her Filipino identity and the growing need for more cultural representation in drag.
Jiggly was also a trailblazer for transgender visibility within the drag scene. In 2016, she publicly came out as transgender, sharing her personal journey with fans who had been inspired by her story. While competing on RuPaul’s Drag Race, she was already transitioning but kept it private, not wanting it to define her on the show.
“I didn’t want it to be my storyline, because being a trans woman is not what defines me,” she said in a 2018 interview with Billboard. Jiggly’s bravery in sharing her truth helped countless fans navigate their own gender identities, and her work remains a powerful testament to living authentically.
As the drag world mourns her loss, RuPaul’s Drag Race shared a statement remembering Jiggly’s talent, truth, and impact. “Her legacy will continue to slay—always,” the statement read, as they held her family, friends, and fans close in their hearts during this difficult time.
Jiggly Caliente may have left us far too soon, but her influence and light will never be forgotten.
Source: AP News – Drag performer Jiggly Caliente from ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ franchise dies at 44 after hospitalization
