Jiggly Caliente, drag superstar, dies at 44

Jiggly Caliente. Image: Instagram/@jigglycalienteofficial

Jiggly Caliente, a drag performer who gained widespread recognition after joining “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” has died, her family confirmed. She was 44 years old.

Caliente’s death was confirmed by her family in a statement on Sunday, April 27. The cause of the drag performer’s death, who goes by the pronouns she or her, is not revealed.

“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 a.m., surrounded by her loving family and close friends,” the statement read.

Image: Screengrab from Instagram/@jigglycalienteofficial

The drag queen is noted for her “infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity,” with her family stating that her “artistry and activism” captivated the hearts of fans.

“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 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,” they added.

Caliente’s death came three days after she announced that she won’t participate in upcoming activities, including her judging stint in an upcoming season of “Drag Race Philippines,” due to a “health setback.”

While neither the drag queen nor her family disclosed Caliente’s exact condition, she lost “most of her right leg” due to a severe infection.

Born Bianca Castro-Arabejo, Caliente was born in San Pedro, Laguna before moving to the US at 10 years old. She came out sometime in junior high school, and publicly declared that she is a transgender woman in 2016.

She was thrust into the public eye after joining the fourth season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2012 where she finished eighth. She also competed in “RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars” season six in 2021.

The Filipino-American performer was one of the mainstay judges of “Drag Race Philippines” from seasons one to three.