The entertainment world is mourning the loss of beloved RuPaul’s Drag Race star and LGBTQ+ activist Jiggly Caliente, who has passed away at the age of 44. Known offstage as Bianca Castro-Arabejo, Caliente was a vibrant force within both the drag scene and the wider LGBTQ+ community. Her family confirmed the tragic news via a heartfelt social media post, revealing that she died peacefully on April 27, 2025, surrounded by close family and friends. The loss of Jiggly Caliente has sent shockwaves across the drag community, with many fans and fellow performers expressing their grief and celebrating her legacy.
Health Struggles Leading Up to Her Death
Just days before her passing, Caliente’s family had shared troubling news regarding her health. The Drag Race star had been hospitalized due to a severe infection, which ultimately led to the amputation of most of her right leg. This infection proved to be a critical turning point, and despite medical intervention, her condition worsened. Due to her health setback, Caliente had to withdraw from judging the upcoming season of Drag Race Philippines, a project she was deeply passionate about. Fans were heartbroken to learn of her struggles, hoping for a recovery that sadly did not come.
Celebrating a Life of Talent and Advocacy
Jiggly Caliente rose to fame during the fourth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, where she became a fan favorite thanks to her infectious energy, fierce spirit, and unapologetic authenticity. She later starred in the groundbreaking LGBTQ+ series Pose, which focused on the lives of Black and Latino LGBTQ+ individuals in the ballroom culture of New York City. Beyond her entertainment career, Caliente was an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, trans visibility, and mental health awareness. Her journey as a trans woman inspired countless fans around the world, and she used her platform to encourage others to live their truth proudly.
Her family’s statement beautifully captured her impact:
“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.”
An Ongoing Legacy
While Jiggly Caliente’s physical presence is gone, her influence remains. Her contributions to television, drag performance, and LGBTQ+ advocacy will continue to inspire new generations. Her story is one of resilience, joy, and courage — themes she embodied both on and off the stage. Her passing also brings attention to the health disparities faced by transgender individuals, who often experience barriers to quality healthcare. Advocates are calling for more awareness and support for marginalized communities, echoing causes that Caliente herself championed.
A Time of Collective Mourning
Caliente’s death comes at a somber time for the Drag Race family, following the recent loss of another beloved performer, The Vivienne, earlier this year. The Vivienne, a winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, passed away at the young age of 32 due to cardiac arrest. These back-to-back losses have left fans grieving and reflecting on the fragility of life. Tributes have been pouring in from across the world, with fans and celebrities alike honoring Caliente’s legacy. Social media has been flooded with memories, art, and messages of thanks for her contributions to the community.
Remembering Jiggly Caliente
Born on November 29, 1980, Jiggly Caliente lived a life full of vibrancy, artistry, and purpose. She leaves behind a legacy of acceptance, empowerment, and fierce self-expression. While her loss is deeply felt, her impact remains indelible. As her family wrote,
“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.” May Jiggly Caliente rest in power, and may her spirit continue to inspire love, authenticity, and fierce resilience in all of us.
