Jiggly Caliente attends Paramount+ & RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Cast Celebrate The S6 Premiere At Drive n’ Drag at Randall’s Island Park on June 26, 2021 in New York City.<span class="image-caption-credit"> (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images for Paramount+)</span>
Jiggly Caliente, RuPaul’s Drag Race Star, Dies at 44 After Health Battle
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Breaking News
Jiggly Caliente, the beloved RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4 contestant and Philippines judge, has passed away at the age of 44. Bianca Castro-Arebejo, known professionally as Jiggly Caliente, died peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends.
Family Statement
“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.”
Final Days and Health Struggles
Prior to her passing, Caliente had faced significant health challenges. She underwent a leg amputation due to a severe infection, as confirmed by her family on social media. The reality star’s medical journey began with what was described as a “serious health setback,” leading to extensive medical intervention.
Career and Legacy
Jiggly Caliente first captured hearts on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4 in 2012, where she secured eighth place. Her journey in the drag world continued to flourish, leading to her return in All Stars and ultimately becoming a permanent judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines in 2022, where she proudly embraced her Filipino heritage.
Career Highlights
- Contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4 (2012)
- Returned for All Stars with a memorable butterfly-inspired look (2021)
- Permanent judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines (2022)
- Advocate for Filipino representation in drag culture
Community Response
The drag community has rallied together in mourning, with fellow performers and fans sharing messages of love and support. Season 8 champion Bob the Drag Queen wrote, “Jiggly I love you so much. You always keep it so real. A true diva.” Ginger Minj added her heartfelt tribute: “I love you more than words can say. You’re always on my mind.”
Lasting Impact
In one of her last interviews with Gay Times in 2022, Caliente spoke about representation: “I just felt that I didn’t get to show much of my Filipino side on the season because I was only on for two episodes! I didn’t get to rock what I really wanted to wear so when it came to promo, I wanted to have a little bit of the Philippines with me.” This commitment to authenticity and representation became a defining aspect of her legacy.
Remembering Jiggly
The family has invited friends, fans, and the community to honor Jiggly’s memory by sharing messages of love and support on social media, celebrating the joy and inspiration she brought to countless lives around the world.
As the drag community and fans worldwide mourn this significant loss, Jiggly Caliente’s impact on LGBTQ+ representation, drag culture, and entertainment will continue to inspire future generations. Her journey from RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant to respected judge and advocate has left an indelible mark on the art of drag and the fight for visibility and acceptance.
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