The world of drag and TV shows is sad about the loss of Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known to fans as the bright and talented drag queen Jiggly Caliente. The 44-year-old performer, who became famous on the fourth season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” passed away on Sunday morning. She was with her loving family and close friends after problems from a bad infection.
The news of her death comes just days after her family shared sad news that Jiggly was in the hospital because of the infection. Sadly, this led to doctors needing to remove most of her right leg. This health problem also made her unable to be a judge on the next season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines” and do any public events.
In a sweet message posted on her Instagram page, Jiggly’s family remembered her as “a bright light in the worlds of entertainment and helping others.” They talked about her “catching energy, funny smartness, and real honesty.” They also mentioned the many lives she touched through her art, her work for important causes, and her true connection with fans everywhere.
Born in the Philippines, Bianca moved to New York and started her drag career about twenty years ago. She amazed people in competitions and shows. Her Filipino background was a big part of her work, and she often spoke about how important it is for different kinds of people to be seen in the industry. In 2018, she released a hip-hop album called “T.H.O.T. Process,” which had a song where she rapped in Tagalog.
Besides her amazing performances, Jiggly Caliente strongly supported the rights of transgender people. She publicly shared that she was a transgender woman in 2016. She was partly inspired by letters from fans who were struggling with their own feelings about their gender. In a 2018 interview, she said that while she had been changing her gender during her time on “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” she chose to keep it private. She explained, “I didn’t want that to be my main story, because being a trans woman is not the only thing that defines me.”
Jiggly’s impact went beyond “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” She also appeared on “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” and showed her acting skills in TV shows like “Broad City” and “Pose.” In 2022, she came back to the “Drag Race” family as a judge on “Drag Race Philippines.” This role was very important to her as a proud Filipina woman who moved to another country.
Many messages of sadness and support have come from other “Drag Race” stars and fans, showing how much Jiggly affected their lives. “RuPaul’s Drag Race” also shared a kind message on X, saying, “Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her amazing spirit will continue to shine forever. We’re sending love to her family, friends, and fans during this sad time.”
Jiggly Caliente’s life was about love, bravery, and light. Her catching energy, real honesty, and dedication to her work and community will be deeply missed and always remembered.
