Jiggly Caliente Dead - 'RuPaul's Drag Race' & 'Pose' Star Dies at 44
Jiggly Caliente, also known as Bianca Castro-Arabejo, passed away at the age of 44 on April 27, 2025, following complications from a severe infection. Known for her vibrant energy and authenticity, she made an indelible impact on the entertainment and advocacy landscapes, touching lives through her work on shows like 'RuPaul’s Drag Race' and 'Pose'. Her passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tribute from her peers and fans, who remember her for her contributions and the space she created for others. Jiggly's legacy as an artist and activist is characterized by love, courage, and the joy she brought to many. Her memory will continue to inspire and be cherished by her family, friends, and countless admirers across the world.
Jiggly Caliente, born Bianca Castro-Arabejo, died at the age of 44 surrounded by her family and friends, following the loss of most of her leg due to a severe infection.
She was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity, which resonated with a global audience and made her a beloved figure in entertainment and advocacy.
Her career highlights include appearances on 'RuPaul’s Drag Race' Season 4 and 'All Stars 6', as well as a role in the series 'Pose', and her work as a judge on 'Drag Race Philippines'.
Fellow Drag Race stars and fans have publicly mourned her death, expressing deep sorrow and honoring her lasting impact on their lives and the drag community.
Jiggly's legacy is one of love, courage, and light, and her contributions to artistry and activism continue to inspire many, ensuring she will be eternally remembered and missed.
Her passing marks a significant loss for the Drag Race family and the broader community of fans and advocates who admired her work and spirit.
Tributes on social media from peers such as Jessica Wild, Morphine Love Dion, and others reflect the profound impact Jiggly had on those who knew her and the broader entertainment community.

Jiggy Caliente has tragically passed away.
Just days after it was revealed that the drag entertainer lost most of her leg amid a severe infection, the family of the RuPaul’s Drag Race alum confirmed that she passed away on Sunday (April 27) in a statement.
“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,” they wrote.
Keep reading to find out more…
“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 continued.
“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.”
Drag Race stars mourned the loss in the comments, including Jessica Wild, who wrote: “May our beloved sister rest in peace. It’s so painful to know that we’ve lost you sis, but you will live on forever in our hearts. My deepest condolences to her family, friends and everyone who loves her as much as I do.Fly high Jiggly❤️”
Morphine Love Dion wrote: “I cannot stop crying I love you so much I wish I can hug you one more time this can’t be real…”
Jackie Cox wrote: “This is so devastating. 💔Rest in peace. 🕊️”
Jiggly Caliente first appeared on Season 4 of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012. She then returned for All Stars 6 in 2021, having coming out a trans woman in 2016.
She also starred in Pose, and served as a judge on all three seasons of Drag Race Philippines.
Our thoughts are with Jiggly Caliente‘s loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. RIP.
We have sadly lost several stars from the Drag Race family.