Drag performer Jiggly Caliente from ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ franchise dies at 44 after hospitalization la trendy New year 2344⁵p

Drag performer Jiggly Caliente from ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ franchise dies at 44 after hospitalization la

It is with profound sadness that we report the passing of Bianca Castro-arabejo, the beloved drag performer known to the world as Jiggly Calielnte, at the age of 44.  On Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 4:42 a.m., Jiggly, who gained international fame from her appearances on Rupaul's Drag Race, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her devoted family and close friends. Jiggly's family learned just a few days before she passed away that she had been hospitalized with a serious infection that tragically necessitated the amputation of the majority of her right leg. The news of her sudden deterioration in health and death has caused waves of grief throughout the drag community as well as her countless followers worldwide. Born on November 29, 1980, in San Pedro, Laguna, Philippines, Bianca Castro moved to New York City with her mother and brother as a child.  She blossomed into Jiggly Calielnte, a vibrant and charismatic drag artist who captured hearts with her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity.  Her stage name was playfully inspired by the Pokémon character Jigglypuff.

 Jiggly Calielnte first sashayed into the global spotlight on the fourth season of RuPaul's Drag Race in 2012.  Although she didn't take home the crown, her memorable personality and captivating performances, particularly her lip-sync battles, left a lasting impression on viewers.  She later returned to the Drag Race universe for the sixth season of Rupaul's Drag Race All Stars in 2021, further solidifying her status as a beloved figure in the franchise.

 Jiggly was a vocal supporter of transgender rights and LGBTQ+ visibility outside of her time on Drag Race. She courageously and openly disclosed her identity as a transgender woman in public in 2016, inspiring a lot of people. Her impact extended beyond the stage and screen, as she used her platform to uplift and connect with fans around the world.

 Jiggly Calielnte joined Drag Race Philippines in 2022 and took on a new role as a judge, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm with a new generation of drag artists. Her insightful critiques and genuine care for the contestants resonated with audiences in the Philippines and beyond.

 From fellow Drag Race alums and LGBTQ+ community members, tributes have poured in highlighting Jiggly's kindness, warmth, and the lasting impression she left on their lives. Her "drag daughter" from Drag Race season 14, June Jambalaya, shared a heartfelt message on social media, describing Jiggly as her "safe place" and "human diary."

 According to her family, Jiggly "touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world," and she was "a luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy." They emphasized her legacy of "love, courage, and light," adding, "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."

 The world has lost a bright star, but the spirit and artistry of Jiggly Calinte will undoubtedly continue to shine through the countless lives she touched.