RIP Jiggly Caliente age 44 #PinkInOurLives #PinkNews #Dragrace

Drag Race star and advocate Jiggly Caliente dies aged 44

Beloved drag performer and LGBTQIA+ advocate Jiggly Caliente has died at the age of 44, her family has confirmed. Caliente, whose name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo, passed away on Sunday, 27 April, surrounded by close friends and family after suffering a “severe infection”.

Family releases private statement

“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known to the world and cherished by many as Jiggly Caliente,” her family wrote. “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.”

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Earlier this month, her family had shared that Caliente underwent surgery to amputate part of her right leg after a severe infection.

Drag Race star and trans advocate

Caliente first became a fan favorite competing on season four of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012. She later returned for All Stars season six and was a judge on Drag Race Philippines. Away from the Drag Race stage, Caliente acted in hit shows like Broad City, Search Party, and the LGBTQIA+ drama Pose.

Tributes have poured in from across the drag community.

“I love you, my sister. I will forever remember our giggles together. I’m so grateful we met this lifetime,” Drag Race star, JuJubee said. Michelle Visage, long-time Drag Race judge, wrote: “My heart, my soul, my jiggles….I will always love you.”

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Caliente moved from the Philippines to New York City as a child. In 2016, she publicly came out as transgender, becoming a powerful advocate for the trans and Filipino-American communities.