Heartbreaking Farewell: RuPaul's Drag Race Star Jiggly Caliente Dies at 44 After Amputation

Jiggly Caliente dies at the age of 44

RuPaul's Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente has passed away at 44, just days after undergoing a right leg amputation due to a severe infection. The news has deeply moved fans and fellow performers worldwide.Escreva seu texto aqui...

In a heartbreaking announcement this morning, the family of Bianca Castro-Arebejo, professionally known as Jiggly Caliente, confirmed her death at the age of 44. The "RuPaul’s Drag Race" star, who appeared in season four and also served as a judge on "Drag Race Philippines," passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 AM, surrounded by family and close friends.

Jiggly had been battling severe health complications over the past few weeks, leading to the amputation of most of her right leg due to a serious infection. Despite the surgery, her condition worsened, resulting in her death just days later.

In an official statement, the family said: "It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Bianca Castro-Arebejo, lovingly known as Jiggly Caliente. A luminous presence in entertainment and advocacy, she will be remembered for her infectious energy, sharp wit, and unwavering authenticity."

Social media flooded with emotional tributes from fans and fellow performers. Messages like "You lit up every room you entered" and "Rest in power, dear" echoed the grief felt across the drag community. Fellow drag queen Ella Vaday commented: "Always so sweet to me. May you rest in power."

Jiggly’s legacy is one of love, courage, and light. Her voice will continue inspiring those fighting for space and visibility. In loving memory: Bianca Castro-Arebejo (Jiggly Caliente) - November 29, 1980 – April 27, 2025.

Recently, the drag community also mourned the loss of Heklina, another major figure in the LGBTQIA+ scene, highlighting the ongoing impact and vulnerability of queer artists today.

Jiggly Caliente starred in the fourth season of Ru Paul's Drag Race(Image: jigglycalienteofficial /Instagram)

Following the confirmation of Jiggly Caliente's death, several LGBTQIA+ organizations expressed their grief and issued public tributes.

GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) released an official statement calling Jiggly a "vital voice for the inclusion of trans and Filipino-American people in mainstream entertainment." Additionally, producers of "RuPaul’s Drag Race" revealed that a special posthumous tribute is being prepared for the show’s upcoming season.

Jiggly was also widely known for her advocacy work beyond the stage: she was one of the strongest public defenders of pro-trans legislation in the United States, especially laws aimed at protecting transgender youth in schools. Her acting career expanded in recent years with appearances in TV series like FX's "Pose," where she played Veronica, strengthening her influence both in the drag world and in dramatic television.

In her last social media post, days before her surgery, Jiggly wrote a message of hope to her fans, saying: "No matter the size of the battle, I’m still here, I’m still fighting. The light inside me is greater than any darkness." This post is now being widely shared as a symbol of her strength and legacy.

Close friends revealed that the artist was planning to write a book telling her life story, from the struggles of growing up as a trans person in New York to achieving international fame. Unfortunately, the project remained unfinished, but there are rumors that family and friends are considering publishing it posthumously as a tribute to her journey.