Jiggly Caliente, ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Star and Fearless Filipina Icon, Dies at 44: A Legacy of Glamour, Grit, and Global Love

The world of drag has lost one of its brightest stars. Bianca Castro-Arabejo, beloved by fans as Jiggly Caliente, passed away on Sunday at the age of 44. Known for her electric personality, sharp humor, and unapologetic authenticity, Jiggly wasn’t just a performer—she was a force of nature. Her death, following a battle with a severe infection and surgery, has left fans and the LGBTQ+ community heartbroken, but her legacy as a trailblazer will live on.

A Tragic Loss: Health Struggles and Final Days

Jiggly’s family shared the news of her passing through her Instagram account, revealing she had been hospitalized recently due to a serious infection. Though details were kept private, they mentioned she’d undergone leg amputation surgery before her death. In their statement, they described her as a “luminous presence” who touched lives through her art, activism, and the deep connections she built with fans worldwide.

Her death came just weeks after she stepped back from her role as a judge on Drag Race Philippines’ upcoming season, a position she’d proudly held since 2022. For Jiggly, being part of the show wasn’t just about fame—it was about representing her roots and inspiring others.

From Manila to the Main Stage: A Journey of Passion and Pride

Born in the Philippines, Jiggly moved to New York City as a young adult, carrying dreams as big as her personality. She began her drag career two decades ago, grinding through local pageants and competitions before skyrocketing to fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4 in 2011. Though she didn’t win the crown, her wit, bold fashion choices (remember that unforgettable “post-apocalyptic” look?), and candid charm made her a fan favorite. She returned for All Stars Season 6 in 2021, proving her staying power in the drag world.

But Jiggly was more than a reality TV star. In 2018, she dropped a hip-hop album, T.H.O.T. Process, blending fierce beats with personal storytelling. One track, “P.A.T.I.S.” (which stands for “Pinay Ang Tanging Iibigin Sa’yo” or “A Filipina Is the Only One Who Will Love You”), featured verses in Tagalog—a nod to her heritage and a gift to her Filipino fans.

“I Am a Proud Immigrant Woman”: Advocacy and Representation

Jiggly never hid who she was. During a 2023 episode of Bring Back My Girls, a reality show reuniting Drag Race stars, she spoke passionately about her role on Drag Race Philippines. “When it comes to my culture, I live and breathe that I am Filipina,” she said. “I am a proud immigrant woman.” For her, judging the show was a full-circle moment—a chance to lift up queer talent from her homeland and show the world the beauty of Filipino drag.

Her pride in her identity resonated far beyond the stage. In interviews, she often reflected on how her upbringing shaped her artistry. Drag, for Jiggly, was a way to challenge stereotypes and celebrate the complexities of being a queer immigrant. She didn’t just perform; she paved the way for others to shine.

Tributes Pour In: A Community Mourns

News of Jiggly’s death sparked an outpouring of love from fans and peers. RuPaul’s Drag Race posted a heartfelt message on X: “Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to slay—always.” Fellow drag queens, including past Drag Race contestants, shared stories of her kindness, humor, and the way she made everyone feel like family.

Michelle Visage, Drag Race judge and longtime friend, called her “a light in dark rooms,” while Manila Luzon, another Filipino-American drag legend, wrote, “You showed us how to be fearless.” Fans flooded social media with clips of her most iconic moments—from her hilarious reads to her vulnerable confessions about life struggles.

More Than a Performer: A Legacy of Love and Courage

Jiggly’s impact wasn’t limited to glitter and gowns. She openly discussed her battles with mental health and body image, using her platform to remind fans they weren’t alone. In 2020, she revealed she was HIV-positive, breaking stigmas with her honesty. “I want to live my truth,” she said at the time, “and maybe help someone else live theirs.”

Her advocacy extended to LGBTQ+ rights, especially for people of color and immigrants. She marched in protests, fundraised for charities, and mentored young drag artists. To many, she was proof that you could rise from hardship, embrace your flaws, and still slay the game.

A Final Curtain Call, But the Show Goes On

Jiggly’s death is a reminder of how fragile life can be—but her story doesn’t end here. She leaves behind a community she helped shape, artists she inspired, and a culture she fiercely celebrated. Whether through her music, her TV appearances, or her unshakable confidence, Jiggly taught us to own our stories and find power in our truth.

As we say goodbye to this legendary queen, let’s remember her not with tears, but with the same joy she brought to every stage. Crank up T.H.O.T. Process, rewatch her Drag Race meltdowns, and channel her fearlessness. Because Jiggly Caliente didn’t just leave a mark—she left a blueprint for living boldly, laughing loudly, and loving fiercely. And in the words of her family, that legacy will “continue to slay—always.”

Rest in power, Jiggly. The world’s a little less sparkly without you. 🌟