Latest news with #JigglyCaliente
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
'RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 10 'premiere pays tribute to Jiggly Caliente after queen's death: 'Forever fabulous'
RuPaul's Drag Race is paying tribute to one of its lost stars. The end of the All Stars 10 premiere episode on Friday included a visual memorial to season 4 and All Stars 6 queen Jiggly Caliente, who died on April 27 at age 44. "Forever fabulous," the tribute card read, along with the late queen's name and the years 1980-2025. It also included a photo of Jiggly looking stunning in a knee-length red dress, a promo look from when she was announced as a permanent judge of Drag Race Philippines in 2022. The news of the fan-favorite queen's death came as a shock to Drag Race fans when her family announced it on Instagram late last month. "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," they wrote on Instagram. "Bianca passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 a.m., surrounded by her loving family and close friends." A cause of death was not shared, but the news came just days after they had posted that Jiggly's leg had been amputated following "a severe infection" and she would have to bow out of her judging duties on the international offshoot's upcoming season. Including Jiggly, six Drag Race franchise queens have died since the series launched in 2009. Drag Race UK inaugural winner The Vivienne died earlier this year of cardiac arrest caused by ketamine. Previous to that, Drag Race Thailand competitor Bandit died in 2023, Drag Race UK's Cherry Valentine died in 2022, Drag Race season 8 and All Stars 3 star Chi Chi DeVayne died in 2020, and season 2 queen Sahara Davenport died in 2012, just two years after her show many RuPaul's Drag Race fans, season 4 was the beginning of a golden era of the competition series. Jiggly cemented a place in viewers' hearts on the very first episode, in which she won the mini challenge of posing on a spinning platform while being doused with "hazardous waste" and strutted down the Apocalyptic Couture runway wearing a delightfully bad design that would become known as "baked potato couture." As if that weren't enough of a memorable debut, Jiggly also got into a heated exchange with Lashauwn Beyond during Untucked that prompted her season 4 sister to utter the famous line, "This is not RuPaul's Best Friends' Race." Beginning on season 4, RuPaul made a habit of asking, "May I call you Jiggly?" after saying the queen's giggle-inducing name. The loving bit extended when the "very Saint Tropez" entertainer returned for another stint on All Stars 6 in 2021. Although she sashayed away in the second episode, she once again made quite an impression. In a season twist that saw eliminated contestants battle the next-out queen, Jiggly returned for a lip-sync against her good sis Silky Nutmeg Ganache, but it was their hilarious banter before Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" had even started that was a stand-out moment. "Oh, it's Jiggly," Silky immediately declared in what was supposed to be a beat of suspense as only the opponent's silhouette was shown behind a wall. "Two fat bitches in f---ing leopard print, I can't," Jiggly exclaimed seeing Silky's matching outfit, before keeling over in howls of laughter. "How did this happen?" Outside of her experience with Drag Race, Jiggly, worked as an actress, appearing in a 2018 Saturday Night Live sketch about a drag queen–centric GPS device and performing small parts on Broad City, before starring on Ryan Murphy's Pose as Veronica Ferocity of the House of Ferocity. "There's a stigma with reality TV personalities who want to be actors, and that's why, when I auditioned for Pose, I didn't audition as Jiggly Caliente, I auditioned as Bianca," she previously told Entertainment Weekly. "I didn't want people to box me in as a reality star. I wanted people to give me a fair shot.... When I got the call from All Stars, I couldn't possibly turn it down. I'm in a different space in life. It just felt like it was time for me to do this and compete in a whole different mindset, the right mindset to actually compete — and I got my teeth fixed!" RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 10 airs Fridays on Paramount+. The first two episodes are available to stream now. Read the original article on Entertainment Weekly
The Province
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Province
Drag performer Jiggly Caliente from 'RuPaul's Drag Race' franchise dies at 44 after hospitalization for infection
Published Apr 27, 2025 • 2 minute read Jiggly Caliente from the cast of "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 6" visits the Empire State Building on June 24, 2021, in New York. Photo by Greg Allen / Greg Allen/Invision/AP Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. NEW YORK — Drag performer Bianca Castro-Arabejo, who was known as reality television star Jiggly Caliente on 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' died Sunday at age 44, days after her family reported hospitalization for a serious infection. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Castro-Arabejo, who became a judge on 'Drag Race Philippines' in 2022, scrapped plans to appear on the upcoming season after a recent hospitalization for a 'severe infection' and a leg amputation surgery, her family said in a statement on her Instagram page. She died early Sunday, her family said in another statement. 'A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity,' her family said Sunday. 'She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world.' Essential reading for hockey fans who eat, sleep, Canucks, repeat. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Castro-Arabejo competed on the fourth season of 'RuPaul's Drag Race' and later on 'RuPaul's Drag Race Allstars.' 'Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to slay — always,' said a statement from 'RuPaul's Drag Race' posted on X. 'We're holding her family, friends, and fans close in our hearts during this difficult time.' 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… — RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) April 27, 2025 This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Born in the Philippines, Castro-Arabejo immigrated to New York. She started working in drag about 20 years ago, appearing in competitions and pageants. She noted the influence of her upbringing in her work and its importance for representation in the industry. In 2018, she released a hip-hop album called 'T.H.O.T. Process,' including a track where she raps in Tagalog. During a 2023 episode of reality show 'Bring Back My Girls,' which reunites different performers from the 'Drag Race' franchise, Castro-Arabejo said her work as a judge was important because of her heritage. 'When it comes to my culture, I live and breathe that I am Filipina,' she said. 'I am a proud immigrant woman.' She publicly came out as transgender in 2016 on a podcast, partly because she said she received letters from fans who were struggling with their own gender identities. 'I wanted to come out because I was ready to come out. I have been living as a trans woman for so long, but I just never told the audience and the fans that,' she said in a 2018 Billboard interview. 'I was actually transitioning while I was on the show, I just never talked about it. I didn't want it to be my storyline, because being a trans woman is not what defines me.'
Cedar News
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Cedar News
Drag Queen Jiggly Caliente Passes Away at 44
Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known by her stage name Jiggly Caliente and famed for her appearance on 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' has died at the age of 44 due to a severe infection. She passed away surrounded by family and friends.
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.'
Daily Mail
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
RuPaul's Drag Race star slammed for 'evil' remarks following the death of fellow queen Jiggly Caliente
RuPaul 's Drag Race star Tyra Sanchez has been slammed for making insensitive remarks online following the death of fellow queen Jiggly Caliente. It was announced on Sunday that Caliente, real name Bianca Castro, had died aged 43, just days after having her right leg amputated due to a 'severe infection.' Since then, season two winner Tyra, real name James Ross, has made repeated digs about the late drag queen on social media, even going as far as mocking the Drag Race alum's amputation. Tyra first initiated a backlash after replying to news of Caliente's death by writing, 'Mwauh!… NO LEG.' In a separate post, she said: 'You mad cause I'm BREATHING. THRIVING. LIVING. Free from any danger. Free from any overdose. 'Stalking my posts just to report them. You can't defeat me. Meanwhile your fav is in a coffin somewhere or snorting a line or idk gettin' they leg cut off.' In another upload, she wrote: 'Respect the dead. B**CH! Did the dead respect me? Mad at me 'cause she threw shade and I returned it right back? 'She thought she cooked. Now she's cooked.' 'Beef does not expire,' a third post read. 'And "til death do you part" only applies to marriage. If we got beef, we got beef forever! Even in YOUR afterlife.' Tyra's social media posts have been blasted online, with Drag Race fans calling her 'truly evil.' 'You have such an ugly heart,' said one. 'It's disappointing.' Another penned: 'You could have done such great things with your career but instead you chose this.' 'My God, you are a horrible human being, truly evil,' a third added. 'How can someone be like that? I feel sorry for you.' A fourth continued: 'To act like this like you're invincible from death is truly INSANE.' Caliente, who rose to fame in 2011, passed away 'peacefully' in the early hours of Sunday morning 'surrounded by her family and friends.' The tragic news was announced by the Filipino American's heartbroken family in a statement shared on Instagram. The tragic news was announced by Bianca's heartbroken family in a statement on Instagram '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. '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. '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-Arebejo (Jiggly Caliente) November 29, 1980 – April 27, 2025.' Caliente was one of the 13 contestants in the fourth season of RuPaul's Drag Race, which aired in 2011. She placed eighth overall and was eliminated following a lip sync battle against seventh placer Willam. Following the show, Caliente came out as a transgender woman.
