“RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Jiggly Caliente has died. She was 44.
Caliente, whose real name is Bianca Castro, passed away after she was hospitalized for a “severe infection” and had one of her legs amputated.
The tragic news was announced Sunday via an Instagram statement from Caliente’s family.
Jiggly Caliente. Instagram / @ jigglycalienteofficial
Jiggly Caliente at RuPaul’s DragCon 2019. Getty Images
“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,” the statement read. “Bianca passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends.”
Jiggly Caliente’s family’s statement. Instagram / @jigglycalienteofficial
“A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity,” the family continued. “She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world.”
The tribute added, “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.”
Jiggly Caliente at “RuPaul’s DragCon” in 2022. FilmMagic
Stars from the “Drag Race” community including Gottmik, Courtney Act, Mistress Isabelle Brooks, DeJa Skye, Melinda Verga, Alexis Michelle and more reacted to Caliente’s death in the comments section.
Caliente came in eighth place on Season 4 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2012. She returned for “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” Season 6 in 2021, where she placed 12th.
In 2022, Caliente became a judge on “Drag Race Philippines” for three seasons. She was born in the Philippines.
Corazon, Pangina Heals, Jiggly Caliente, Lawrence Chaney and Nicky Doll at World of Wonder’s “International Drag Day” event in 2023. Variety via Getty Images
Jiggly Caliente speaks at a press conference on Capitol Hall in June 2024. Getty Images for MoveOn
Her drag name was named after the Pokémon character, Jigglypuff.
Caliente’s family announced Thursday that she had her leg amputated after she “experienced a serious health setback.”
“Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg,” the family’s statement read.
Jiggly Caliente at the “NewNowNext Awards” in April 2012. Kevin Winter
“Because of these circumstances, Bianca will not be appearing in the upcoming season of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines,’ nor will she be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future,” the message continued. “Her recovery will be extensive.”
Jiggly Caliente and Ginger Minj perform at “A Royal Holiday” in Los Angeles in 2016. Getty Images
Caliente’s family asked fans for privacy and said that the reality star was concentrated “on healing.”
In addition to her “Drag Race” career, Caliente had a recurring role on the FX series “Pose” as Veronica Ferocity. She also appeared on “Search Party” and “Saturday Night Live.”
