RuPaul's Drag Race star and Pose actress Jiggly Caliente has died at the age of 44, her family have said.
The performer, whose real name is Bianca Castro, passed away on Sunday morning just days after she had part of her right leg amputated following a "severe infection".
© Getty ImagesHer family announced the sad news via a statement shared to Instagram which read: "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. 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."
© Getty ImagesThe statement continued: "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."
Filipino-American performer Caliente took part in the fourth series of RuPaul's Drag Race in 2012. She also appeared in hit LGBT+ drama Pose, and was set to judge the latest season of spin-off programme, Drag Race Philippines.
© Getty ImagesBeyond this, she also appeared on All Stars season six in 2021, having come out as a trans woman in 2016.
Tributes pour in
A plethora of stars were quick to share tributes online following the announcement. Reacting to her family's statement, Australian drag queen Hannah Conda penned: "Oh my god. My heart is broken! Fly high our queen xxx," while Drag Race Philippines star M1ss Jade So said: "I love you so much! I will miss you!"
Elsewhere, UK Drag Race star Baga Chipz wrote: "One of the most kindest, sweetest souls I've ever met. I'm gonna miss you beautiful. Thank you for always being so lovely. Rest easy legend. Sending your family so much love right now," and Laganja Estranja (Jay Jackson) shared: "So heartbreaking, such a kind, caring soul!! She will be greatly missed."
Drag Race judge Michelle Visage penned on Instagram: "My jiggles... The laughter was endless, our talks were special, your energy was contagious. You were and remain so very loved. This world has lost an angel and we want you to soar high… I love you so much honey."
Also paying tribute were Drag Race UK star Tia Kofi, who penned: "This is such sad news. We have lost a genuinely kind, caring human being," and Cheryl The Queen who wrote: "We will love you forever and always Jiggly."
A statement shared by Drag Race Philippines and producers World Of Wonder on social media said they were "devastated". They added: "Jiggly's humour, love, and light touched so many in the Drag Race family and beyond. Her legacy will continue to uplift the communities she advocated for.
"Our love and deepest condolences go out to her family and friends. Please give them the privacy and space to grieve this tremendous loss."
