Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known globally as Jiggly Caliente, has tragically passed away at the age of 44. She died peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 AM, surrounded by her family and close friends, according to a statement released by her family.
Jiggly Caliente has died at the age of 44. Credit: Monica Schipper / Getty
Jiggly Caliente was a beloved figure in entertainment and activism, celebrated for her "infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity." Her family described her as someone who "touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world."
Born on November 29, 1980, Bianca Castro-Arabejo left a legacy of "love, courage, and light." Her family expressed that though she is no longer physically present, the joy and space she created for so many will remain forever. They concluded, "She will be deeply missed, always loved, and eternally remembered."
The news of her passing comes shortly after it was revealed that Caliente had been hospitalized following a serious health setback. Earlier this month, her family shared that due to a severe infection, she underwent the amputation of most of her right leg. Following this, she withdrew from all public engagements, including her role as a judge on RuPaul's Drag Race Philippines. Her family noted that her recovery would be extensive.
Jiggly Caliente first rose to fame as a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4 in 2011, where she reached the top eight before being eliminated. She quickly became a fan favorite due to her charisma, humor, and resilience. After the show, Caliente came out as a transgender woman, underwent a physical transformation, and became a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
Her contributions to both entertainment and advocacy made her an icon in the drag community and beyond. She also returned for RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars Season 6 in 2021 and continued to make a mark as a judge on Drag Race Philippines.
The outpouring of love and support from fellow Drag Race alumni and fans worldwide reflects the profound impact she had on the LGBTQ+ community and pop culture. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
About the characters:
Jiggly Caliente: A beloved drag queen and contestant from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4. Jiggly was known for her positive attitude, resilience, and activism in the LGBTQ+ community. She later became a judge on Drag Race Philippines.
RuPaul: An American drag queen, television personality, and creator of RuPaul’s Drag Race, a reality competition show that has become a global platform for drag culture and LGBTQ+ rights.
Bianca Del Rio: A fellow Drag Race alum, Bianca Del Rio is a drag performer, comedian, and winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 6. She expressed her condolences on social media after Jiggly’s passing.
Chris Hughes: A Love Island UK star, part of the Drag Race Philippines judge panel alongside Jiggly.
Meghan Markle shares the powerful advice Oprah Winfrey gave her during the launch of her new business, revealing how it changed her mindset. Find out what Oprah’s words meant to Meghan.
Katy Perry slams online h@ters amid cr!ticism over her Blue Origin flight and tour performances. She opens up on Instagram about staying true to herself despite the negativity.
Kim Kardashian flaunts her diamond anklets on Instagram during a family vacation in Hawaii, sparking a buzz over their incredible cost. Find out how much these pieces could be worth and more about her iconic jewelry collection.
Meghan Markle shares the powerful advice Oprah Winfrey gave her during the launch of her new business, revealing how it changed her mindset. Find out what Oprah’s words meant to Meghan.
Marjorie Barretto opens up about her touching interaction with her favorite priest, Father Jerry Orbos, and the powerful advice he gave her. Find out what Father Jerry’s words meant to her during a challenging time.
Shuvee Etrata’s hilarious reaction to Donny Pangilinan’s entrance in "Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab" left fans in stitches! Find out what went down and why she couldn’t keep it together!
Katy Perry slams online h@ters amid cr!ticism over her Blue Origin flight and tour performances. She opens up on Instagram about staying true to herself despite the negativity.
These gels are packed with essential nutrients that nourish the scalp, promote growth, and give your hair the shine and softness you desire.
Jackie Forster opens up about her regrets in defending Kyline Alcantara amid the breakup with Kobe Paras. She explains her feelings on the situation and the backlash she’s received.
Kim Kardashian flaunts her diamond anklets on Instagram during a family vacation in Hawaii, sparking a buzz over their incredible cost. Find out how much these pieces could be worth and more about her iconic jewelry collection.
This DIY ABC Skin Care Ice Cube treatment is a quick, easy, and affordable way to brighten your complexion, reduce pigmentation, and soothe irritated skin.
Packed with potent botanicals like garlic, fenugreek, black seed oil, amla, and coconut oil, this serum nourishes the scalp, stimulates hair growth, and strengthens hair follicles.
The natural benefits of beetroot, combined with aloe vera, vitamin E, and basil seeds, create a powerful skincare treatment that nourishes and rejuvenates your skin.
From cleansing and exfoliating to brightening and hydrating, tomatoes provide a natural solution to a variety of skin concerns.
With just two simple ingredients - Vaseline and baby oil - you can create a powerful DIY anti-aging cream that nourishes, hydrates, and rejuvenates your skin.
The rice water and methi dana toner is a simple, affordable, and powerful solution that can help you achieve healthier, more vibrant skin.
