RuPaul's Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente dies at 44 after leg amputation complications
Jiggly Caliente, beloved star of RuPaul's Drag Race and Drag Race Philippines, has died at the age of 44.
Her family announced the news on Instagram, revealing that the performer, whose real name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, following complications from a leg amputation and infection.
Earlier in the week, Caliente's family had informed fans that she had suffered a major health setback, leading to the amputation of most of her right leg. Three days later, they confirmed her passing, writing, 'Bianca passed away peacefully... surrounded by her loving family and close friends.'
Known for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and authenticity, Jiggly Caliente was a bright light in the entertainment and advocacy worlds. Her family shared that her legacy of joy, love, and inclusivity will continue to inspire many.
Caliente first competed on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 4 in 2012 and later returned for All Stars Season 6. She also had a recurring role in the Ryan Murphy series Pose and served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines from 2022 until 2024.
Tributes from the Drag Race community poured in following the news, with Michelle Visage, Jujubee, and Bob the Drag Queen among those expressing their sorrow and admiration. Caliente's final Instagram post, a photoshoot with June Jambalaya, now stands as a touching reminder of her vibrant spirit.
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Express Tribune
27-04-2025
- Express Tribune
RuPaul's Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente dies at 44 after leg amputation complications
Jiggly Caliente, beloved star of RuPaul's Drag Race and Drag Race Philippines, has died at the age of 44. Her family announced the news on Instagram, revealing that the performer, whose real name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, following complications from a leg amputation and infection. Earlier in the week, Caliente's family had informed fans that she had suffered a major health setback, leading to the amputation of most of her right leg. Three days later, they confirmed her passing, writing, 'Bianca passed away peacefully... surrounded by her loving family and close friends.' Known for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and authenticity, Jiggly Caliente was a bright light in the entertainment and advocacy worlds. Her family shared that her legacy of joy, love, and inclusivity will continue to inspire many. Caliente first competed on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 4 in 2012 and later returned for All Stars Season 6. She also had a recurring role in the Ryan Murphy series Pose and served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines from 2022 until 2024. Tributes from the Drag Race community poured in following the news, with Michelle Visage, Jujubee, and Bob the Drag Queen among those expressing their sorrow and admiration. Caliente's final Instagram post, a photoshoot with June Jambalaya, now stands as a touching reminder of her vibrant spirit.
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Jiggly Caliente exits Drag Race Philippines after leg amputation caused by severe infection
Bianca Castro, best known to fans as Jiggly Caliente from RuPaul's Drag Race, has undergone a major health setback resulting in the partial amputation of her right leg. A statement shared by Castro's family on Instagram revealed that the drag performer suffered a 'severe infection' that required hospitalization and extensive surgery. As a result, Castro will not be appearing in the upcoming fourth season of Drag Race Philippines, where she has served as a judge since the show's first season. 'Bianca will not be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future. Her recovery will be extensive,' the family's statement noted, asking for privacy as she focuses on healing. News of her condition quickly sparked an outpouring from the drag community and fans alike. As a fan favorite from RuPaul's Drag Race Season 4 and All Stars Season 6, Jiggly's presence and honesty have left a lasting impact. She also starred on FX's Pose as Veronica Ferocity and became a beloved judge on Drag Race Philippines, alongside Paolo Ballesteros and KaladKaren. Support flooded in from fellow drag artists. Michelle Visage shared, 'We love you so much my sweet jiggles and we are praying with all we've got.' Bob the Drag Queen added, 'Jiggly, I love you so much. You always keep it so real. A true diva. Heal up sis.' Jujubee, Bianca Del Rio, and Carson Kressley were among others sending love. Her family invited fans to send encouraging messages via Jiggly's social media channels during her recovery journey.
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