Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known to millions around the world as Jiggly Caliente, has died at the age of 44.
She passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42AM, surrounded by her family and close friends, according to a private statement released by her family.
A beloved figure in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Castro-Arabejo was celebrated for her "infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity," her family wrote.
"She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world." the statement added.
Born November 29, 1980, Bianca Castro-Arabejo carved out a legacy of "love, courage, and light," the family said. "Though her physical presence is gone, the joy she shared and the space she helped create for so many will remain forever."
Her family concluded: "She will be deeply missed, always loved, and eternally remembered."
The announcement of her death comes just days after it was revealed that Caliente had been hospitalized following a serious health setback.
In a statement earlier this month, her family confirmed that due to a severe infection, she had undergone the amputation of most of her right leg.
"The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback,” her family said at the time. “Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg."
Following the surgery, Jiggly Caliente withdrew from all public engagements, including her appearance as a judge on the upcoming season of RuPaul's Drag Race Philippines. "Her recovery will be extensive," her family noted.
The outpouring of love and support for Caliente was immediate.
Fellow Drag Race alum Bianca Del Rio commented, "Sending all the love, Jiggles." JuJuBee added, "I love you so much. Can't wait to see you again." Beauty icon Amy Doan shared, "I'm so sorry you are going through this! But so glad you are alive. Sending all my love and wishing you a speedy recovery so I can see that beautiful face again."
Jiggly Caliente first gained national fame as a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4, which premiered in 2011. She reached the top eight before her elimination in a now-iconic lip sync battle with Willam. Her charisma, humor, and resilience quickly made her a fan favorite.
After her time on Drag Race, Caliente shared her personal journey with the world, coming out publicly as a transgender woman, shedding 50 pounds, and undergoing a transformation that included a brand-new smile.
In a signature quote from her time on the show, she declared, "I'm going to be the shadiest one of the season, I can see it. No, no I am the shadiest, but I am not the villain." She added, "Definitely more glam than season four because I got the money now. She can afford nice things now. I don't even need $100K [prize] I just need RuPaul to say, 'Jiggly you are the winner. The whole shebang.’"
In 2021, she returned to compete in RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars Season 6 but was eliminated in the second episode. She later became a judge on Drag Race Philippines, which premiered in August 2022, solidifying her place as a global Drag Race royalty.
Throughout her career, Jiggly Caliente remained a beacon of positivity, resilience, and pride. Her contributions to both entertainment and advocacy will be remembered by fans and the LGBTQ+ community around the world.
Our thoughts go out to Castro's family, fans, and loved ones at this time.