RuPaul’s Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente dies aged 44 just days after having right leg amputated as tributes pour in
RUPAUL’S Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente has sadly died aged 44 just days after having her right leg amputated.
The tragic news was announced by Bianca Castro‘s heartbroken family on Instagram today.
A poignant tribute read: “Private Statement from the Family of
Bianca Castro (Jiggly Caliente).
“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Bianca Castro-Arebejo, known to the world and cherished by many as Jiggly Caliente.
“Bianca passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends.
“A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity.
“She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world.
“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.
“In Loving Memory of Bianca Castro-Arebejo (Jiggly Caliente)
November 29, 1980 – April 27, 2025.”
Heartfelt tributes poured in from fans and fellow drag queens after the devastating news.
“My heart aches, I love you, i love you, i love you. It is my hopes that you are at peace now,” wrote one.
Panginaheals added: “I love u so much babes. Thank you for your friendship. You always make me laugh and lit up every room. Your laugh is my favorite and I will always cherish you.”
Drag star Ella Vaday wrote: “Omg so sad, always so sweet to me, Rest in Power girl.”
Actress Kalad Karen shared: “I love you my sister”.
The tragedy comes just days after Bianca’s family revealed she had a “serious health set back” which saw her “losing most of her right leg”.
The family of the famous drag star revealed in a statement: “The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has 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.”
They added: “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.
“Her recovery will be extensive.”
Concluding the shocking statement, Bianca’s family penned: “At this time, we kindly ask for privacy for Bianca and her family as they navigate this difficult journey together.
“While Jiggly concentrates on healing, we invite her friends, fans, and community to uplift her with messages of hope and love on her social media channels.
“Bianca’s family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers.”
Bianca shot to fame after she was announced to be one of thirteen contestants in the fourth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2011.
She placed eighth overall, being eliminated in a lip sync by seventh placer Willam.
The show favourite appeared in archive footage in the season five finale, and made an appearance at the season six live finale.
Her successful acting career was kickstarted in 2015 when she played a role in the season-two finale of Broad City as a shop owner.
She was also one of thirty drag queens featured in Miley Cyrus‘s 2015 VMA performance.
In 2016, Bianca came out publicly as transgender in 2016.
In her latest ventures, Bianca has co-hosted Translation, the first talk show on a major network hosted by an all-trans cast.
In 2021, she was also announced to be one of the 13 queens returning for RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars Season 6.
Bianca was eliminated in the second episode, placing twelfth overall.
The icon was a main judge on Drag Race Philippines, which premiered in August 2022.
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