Jiggly Caliente, a beloved star from "RuPaul’s Drag Race," has passed away at the age of 44, as confirmed by her family. Known off-screen as Bianca Castro-Arabejo, she died early Sunday morning, surrounded by her family and close friends.
Just days before her passing, Jiggly underwent surgery to amputate part of her leg due to a severe infection. Her family shared the news of her death in an emotional post on Instagram, expressing their love and grief.
Jiggly first gained fame as a contestant on the fourth season of the original U.S. version of "Drag Race." After coming out as transgender, she returned to compete in the sixth season of "All Stars." Her unique personality and talent shone brightly on the show, earning her praise for her humor and performances.
In addition to her role on "Drag Race," Jiggly appeared in the acclaimed LGBTQ+ drama series "Pose," where she played Veronica Ferocity, a drag queen involved in the vibrant New York ballroom scene of the 1980s and 1990s. She was also a judge on the Filipino version of "Drag Race," which debuted in 2022.
Jiggly was born in the Philippines and moved to New York as a child. Her contributions to the drag community and her impact on fans will be remembered fondly. Michelle Visage, a close friend and fellow judge on "Drag Race," shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, expressing how much Jiggly was loved and how she will be missed.
The "Drag Race" family has faced the loss of several contestants over the years, and Jiggly’s passing is a significant loss for many. Her legacy as a performer and a friend will continue to inspire those who knew her and those who admired her work.