Latest news with #Jiggly
Daily Mirror
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Backlash after Jiggly Caliente's obituary used as 'heartless' dig by Olympic swimmer
RuPaul's Drag Race drag performer Jiggly Caliente, also known as Bianca Castro-Arabejo,died on April 27 at the age of 44, just days after surgery to amputate her leg. News of the tragic passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes and significant media coverage as fans and friends remember the iconic drag queen. But for Olympic swimmer and gender critic Sharron Davies, the reporting on Jiggly's passing is just another drop in the well of "endless" drag artist coverage. On April 28, Davies posted this message on X alongside the BBC News obituary for Jiggly Caliente's passing: 'When will this stop BBC? Endless drag stories. I'd love to know who's responsible?' The tweet has been viewed over 500,000 times and received immense backlash. Davies' comments on the obituary have been called 'heartless'. One X user commented on the post saying: 'Imagine posting this, in reference to the death of someone who was far more humane than you could ever dream of perceiving.' Inside the dangerous rise of ketamine use as The Vivienne's cause of death is revealed Deputy Leader of the Green Party Zack Polanksi also responded to Davies' post, writing that it was 'disgusting' alongside disability activist and award-winning journalist, Rachel Charlton-Dailey who commented: "It's a f--king obituary you f--king ghoul get a life.' The backlash for Davies' insensitive post has some saying she has "ruined her legacy" as a former Olympic athlete by undermining Jiggly's passing. In addition to being a transgender rights activist, the drag artist was one of the first artists to represent Filipino Drag on an international stage. The outpouring of tributes for Jiggly has overshadowed the hate. Drag Race judge, Michelle Visage, shared a photo of herself and Jiggly on Instagram expressing heartbreak at her passing. Visage wrote alongside the shot: 'My jiggles…. The laughter was endless, our talks were special, your energy was contagious. You were and remain so very loved. This world has lost an angel and we want you to soar high... I love you so much honey.' Olympic swimmer Davies has publicly supported attempts to exclude transgender women from women's sports, and has previously compared the inclusion of trans women in women's sports to doping. She has also been widely critical of the art of drag over the years. Responding to one of Davies' previous X posts, television host Lorraine Kelly highlighted the power of drag. Kelly posted on X back in 2019: "Oh Sharon. You can't underestimate the power of drag and how it empowers people who often feel like outsiders - they can find their family, grow in confidence, learn to love themselves and be who they really are. It can literally save lives. And it's such a lot of FUN!" Unfortunately, Davies is not the only person that has shared tactless comments on Jiggly Caliente's passing. RuPaul's Drag Race winner Tyra Sanchez posted a meme of themselves leaning against a tombstone with Jiggly's date of birth and death with the inscription: "Here lies she who came for me". The news of Jiggly's passing was shared by her family, with their own tribute reading: "It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Bianca Castro-Arebejo, known to the world and cherished by many as Jiggly Caliente. Bianca passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends."
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Drag' musical dedicates final show to late drag queen Jiggly Caliente
NEW YORK — The creators of 'Drag: The Musical' dedicated its final show to the memory of Jiggly Caliente, hours after her death was announced. 'RuPaul's Drag Race' winner Alaska, the co-creator, co-writer and co-star of the hit off-Broadway production, opened the closing night performance honoring the memory of fellow drag queen legally known as Bianca Castro-Arabejo — who died Sunday at age 44 after being hospitalized with an infection that required her leg to be amputated. 'Jiggly was an icon, activist and friend,' Alaska told the packed audience at New York City's New World Stages on Sunday night, People magazine reported. 'She came and saw the show back in December and she loved it and she was always really supportive of all of us. And I know that she would want us to put on a fierce, [last] show for you today. So that's what we're going to do.' As fellow 'Drag Race' stars Jujubee, Jan Sport and Luxx Noir London looked on, Alaska continued to the cheering crowd: 'Jiggly, this one's for you. We love you, honey.' Castro-Arabejo became a fan favorite in Season 4 of the Emmy-winning reality TV series. Taking her stage name from the Pokemon Jigglypuff, the transgender actress went on to star in the FX series 'Pose' and was named a judge for 'Drag Race Philippines' in 2022. Co-produced by Liza Minnelli, 'Drag: The Musical' opened in October 2024 and played 215 performances and 24 previews following several extensions. The sequin-splattered production was directed and choreographed by 'Hedwig and the Angry Inch' choreographer Spencer Liff.
Daily Mirror
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
RuPaul slammed for 'out of touch' post after Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente's death
RuPaul's Drag Race stars and fans of the franchise have been paying tribute to Jiggly Caliente - whose real name is Bianca Castro-Arabejo - following the recent news of her death Fans have been left divided over RuPaul having seemingly not publicly addressed the death of former RuPaul's Drag Race contestant Jiggly Caliente. Some fans have criticised the TV host for instead posting a skit on social media. It was announced yesterday that Jiggly - whose real name is Bianca Castro-Arabejo - had died earlier that morning, aged 44. The news came after the late drag artist's family had shared on social media just days earlier that she had her leg amputated recently due to a "serious infection". Tributes have since been paid to Jiggly - who rose to fame on RuPaul's Drag Race in 2012 - before returning for All Stars nine years later. Drag Race judge Michelle Visage has been among those paying tribute to the late TV star, who had herself been a judge on Drag Race Philippines since 2022. The official RuPaul's Drag Race page on Instagram also remembered Jiggly yesterday, saying that she's a "cherished member" of its family. It's understood that RuPaul hasn't yet posted about Jiggly's death on his personal page though. Earlier today though, a skit was shared on the page. In the sketch, RuPaul appears to lip sync: "Tell me if this is normal?" The Drag Race host then mimics cracking his neck as a sound resembling a fart plays out in the audio of the scene. The video concludes with RuPaul pretending to cry. Fans reacted to the post in the comments section today. One person wrote: "Ru, I love you, but posting this before a statement about Jiggly is so out of touch." Another said in their response: "I love you Ru, but you posted this before saying anything about Jiggly? She was one of your own." A third follower wrote in their comment: "Hey so this is actually insane to post when one of the queens that made your show just died. Say something. Show some god damn respect." Sharing their thoughts, someone else said on the platform: "Y haven't you said anything yet? It's weird..." Another fan wrote earlier: "Literally, one of the biggest icons of the franchise just tragically died and this is what you post?!?!" Others suggested that the post may have been scheduled in advance. One fan said: "I almost feel like these posts have to be pre-scheduled because there hasn't been any mention of Jiggly." Another speculated: "This was most likely a scheduled post. I highly doubt she just filmed this. Give Ru the benefit of the doubt, y'all." Whilst others have defended RuPaul. One person said: "Don't rush Ru to talk about someone let people grieve. Ru always gives some sort of tribute give people time! For now just laugh if you can that's what Jiggly would have wanted." Another wrote: "I understand why people are emotional right now, but I also think it's important to remember that posting on social media doesn't define someone's grief or their relationship to someone who passed. People have gotten so conditioned to expect public displays for private emotions, but true mourning doesn't have to be performative." They added: "RuPaul may choose to honour Jiggly in his own way, privately, and that doesn't make it any less real or meaningful. Sometimes the demand for a post says more about our need for closure or optics than it does about the people who are actually grieving. Everyone processes loss differently, and I don't think it's fair to judge someone's care based on what they do or don't post." It had been announced last week that Jiggly had been hospitalised due to a "severe infection" before having her right leg amputated. Her family suggested in a statement at the time that she was recovering from the experience. Her family said in a statement then: "The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has 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. "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. Her recovery will be extensive." They concluded: "At this time, we kindly ask for privacy for Bianca and her family as they navigate this difficult journey together. While Jiggly concentrates on healing, we invite her friends, fans, and community to uplift her with messages of hope and love on her social media channels. Bianca's family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers." It was then announced over the weekend that Jiggly had died. Her family said: "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. 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. She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world." They concluded: "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. In Loving Memory of Bianca Castro-Arabejo (Jiggly Caliente) November 29, 1980 - April 27, 2025." The news was met with an outpouring of tributes. The official account for RuPaul's Drag Race - which, alongside being the host, RuPaul has been an executive producer of - paid tribute on Instagram alongside other colleagues. Beside a photo of Jiggly, she was described as a "cherished" member of the Drag Race family. The caption read: "We are devastated by the passing of Jiggly Caliente, a cherished member of the Drag Race family. Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to slay - always. We're holding her family, friends, and fans close in our hearts during this difficult time."
Los Angeles Times
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Jiggly Caliente, beloved ‘Drag Race' performer and ‘Pose' actor, dies at 44
'RuPaul's Drag Race' alumna Jiggly Caliente, a beloved drag star whose career and legacy extends beyond the long-running franchise, has died. Jiggly Caliente, who also appeared in TV series 'Pose' and 'Broad City,' died early Sunday morning, her family announced in an Instagram statement. She died 'peacefully' and 'surrounded by her loving family and close friends,' the statement said. Additional details including a cause of death were not revealed. She was 44. 'A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity,' the statement continued. 'She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world.' Jiggly Caliente died days after her family announced Thursday that she suffered a 'severe' infection and had most of her right leg amputated as a result. At the time the entertainer's family said 'her recovery will be extensive' and asked fans to 'uplift her with messages of hope and love.' On Sunday, as news of her death spread, messages of love and support from Jiggly's 'Drag Race' family took on a tone of remembrance. 'You were truly one of a kind, and I'm going to miss you deeply. Rest in power sister. Grateful that the RuGirls have one more angel now,' wrote Shea Couleé, Season 9 runner-up and 'All Stars' Season 5 winner. 'My jiggles…. The laughter was endless, our talks were special, your energy was contagious,' said Michelle Visage, who posted a photo with the late star. 'You were and remain so very loved. This world has lost an angel and we want you to soar high…..I love you so much honey.' 'Drag Race Philippines,' a spin-off series where Jiggly Caliente brought her experience and expertise back to her birth country, remembered the artist for her 'humor, love, and light [that] touched so many in the Drag Race family and beyond.' Filipino queens including Manila Luzon and Marina Summers also paid tribute. 'I know we always joked with each other, but seriously you better save me a seat next to you in our special place Hell together!,' Manila Luzon joked in her Instagram post. Bianca Castro-Arabejo was born Nov. 29, 1980, in the Laguna province of the Philippines. She immigrated to the United States in her preteen years and called New York City home. The self-proclaimed 'NYC Asian Plus Size Barbie' competed in several pageants and entertained at numerous local nightclubs. Jiggly would bring her experience to 'RuPaul's Drag Race' for Season 4 in 2012, competing alongside 'Drag Race' fan favorites including Latrice Royale and Chad Michaels. 'She's got swag for your nerve, you can't take her,' said Jiggly during her Werkroom entrance. She was 30 years old at the time. Jiggly's time on 'Drag Race' had a rocky start but she earned a reputation for her raunchy humor and dynamic dance moves. Though Jiggly did not walk away with the crown — she placed eighth in the season — her 'Drag Race' legacy includes a heated confrontation with competitor Lashauwn Beyond that inspired the popular 'This is not RuPaul's Best Friends Race' quote. Nearly a decade later, Jiggly returned to the 'Drag Race' main stage in 2021 as she competed against other returning queens in 'All Stars' Season 6. Jiggly came out as trans in 2016 and proudly referenced her transition in her Werkroom entrance. Strutting in a black mini dress and platform heels, Jiggly declared, 'Well mother did say, 'May the best woman win.'' 'Coming out as a trans woman was a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders. Now I know who I am as an entertainer. I know who I am as a queen. I know who I am as a person and I'm coming full force,' she said in her first confessional. 'Get ready.' Jiggly's time on 'All Stars' did not last very long — she was eliminated in the second episode — but the opportunities did not stop there. She served as a judge on 'Drag Race Philippines' since its premiere in 2022, tapping into her own experiences to offer competitors tough love and constructive criticism in English and Tagalog. Beyond 'Drag Race,' Jiggly also briefly pursued music and appeared in several TV series. In FX's Peabody-winning 'Pose,' she appeared as a member of the House of Ferocity. She shared the screen with stars including Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Dominique Jackson and Billy Porter. Her acting credits also include 'Search Party,' 'Playing House,' the film 'Milkwater' and several music videos. 'My kind usually don't make it [past] 35. I've honestly lived a rollercoaster of a life,' Jiggly said in an Instagram post celebrating her 44th birthday. 'Good the bad everything has made me the woman I am today. Hopefully more to come.' Jiggly Caliente's family said 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.'
Yahoo
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Jiggly Caliente Remembered As An 'Icon' And 'Trailblazer' In Beautiful Tributes
The world of drag is in mourning following the death of performer Bianca Castro-Arabejo, better known to fans of RuPaul's Drag Race as Jiggly Caliente. Over the weekend, it was announced that the fan-favourite queen had died at the age of 44, days after it was announced she had been hospitalised with a severe infection that led to her leg having to be amputated. A statement from Jiggly's family posted on her official social media account on Sunday confirmed: '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. Bianca passed away peacefully on 27 April 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends.' Remembering Jiggly as a 'luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy', the statement continued: '[She] was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity. She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world. '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.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jiggly Caliente (@jigglycalienteofficial) Jiggly first rose to fame when she was cast on the fourth run of RuPaul's Drag Race, a season which helped turn the show from cult favourite to global hit. While Jiggly almost went home in the first episode, her lip sync to Britney Spears' Toxic meant she stayed in the competition, eventually finishing in eighth place and being embraced by Drag Race fans. Almost a decade later, she was invited back to compete on the sixth All Stars season, delivering another memorable lip sync of En Vogue's Free Your Mind during the competition. A spokesperson for RuPaul's Drag Race said on Sunday: 'We are devastated by the passing of Jiggly Caliente, a cherished member of the Drag Race family. Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to slay – always. 'We're holding her family, friends, and fans close in our hearts during this difficult time.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by RuPaul's Drag Race (@rupaulsdragrace) Judge Michelle Visage wrote in the comments: 'She was one of the best humans walking this earth and so pure. What you saw was what you got only waaaaaay more twisted in the best possible way.' Since the news of her death, those from the drag community who knew and worked with Jiggly have also paid their respects on social media. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michelle Visage (@michellevisage) I love you — Jaremi (@JustJaremi) April 27, 2025 🕊💙 — Jaremi (@JustJaremi) April 27, 2025 View this post on Instagram A post shared by KYLIE SONIQUE LOVE (@xosonique) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ginger Minj (@gingerminj) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rajah Ohara (@therajahoharashow) Going to miss our 4hour phone conversations that were never planned, you surprising me if we're in the same town for a gig, or just hearing your laugh. To Know that i whote see you again is really tough & that's going to take a min for me to work through, I'm going miss u sis💕 — DiDa 'Susan Lucci' Ritz (@TheRealDiDaSwag) April 28, 2025 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pandora Boxx (@pandoraboxx) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Trinity K. Bonet (@trinitykbonet) View this post on Instagram A post shared by AkeriaChanelDavenport (@mizakeriachanel) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Miss PepperMint (@peppermint247) View this post on Instagram A post shared by jujubee (@jujubeeonline) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Madame LaQueer (@madamelaqueer) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mrs. Kasha Davis • Drag Queen storyteller & speaker (@mrskashadavis) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jan Sport (@janjanjan) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Katya Zamolodchikova (@katya_zamo) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bob/ Caldwell Tidicue (@bobthedragqueen) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bianca Del Rio (@thebiancadelrio) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alaska (@theonlyalaska5000) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Manila Luzon (@manilaluzon) As well as competing on RuPaul's Drag Race, she later became a judge on Drag Race Philippines for its first three seasons. She also had minor roles in the hit comedies Broad City and Search Party, and played Bianca Ferocity in the award-winning drama Pose. RuPaul Voices 'Heartbreak' Following The Death Of Drag Race UK Winner The Vivienne, Aged 32
