RuPaul’s Drag Race and its production company, World of Wonder, have issued heartfelt tributes following the death of beloved Drag Race alum and Drag Race Philippines judge, Jiggly Caliente.
Bianca Castro-Arabejo, widely known as Jiggly Caliente, competed on season four and All Stars season six of RuPaul’s Drag Race and served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines. She passed away peacefully on 27 April, 2025, after a “severe infection” that tragically led to the loss of her right leg.
In a statement shared across RuPaul’s Drag Race‘s official social media channels, the franchise remembered Jiggly’s “talent, truth and impact,” calling her a “cherished member of the Drag Race family.”
“We are devastated by the passing of Jiggly Caliente, a cherished member of the Drag Race family. Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to slay—always,” the statement read. “We’re holding her family, friends, and fans close in our hearts during this difficult time.”
World of Wonder, the production company behind the Drag Race franchise, also shared its grief, calling Jiggly’s passing a “tremendous loss.”
“We are devastated to hear of the passing of Bianca Castro, aka Jiggly Caliente. 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.”
Drag Race Philippines also echoed the same statement across its social media accounts.
Jiggly’s family confirmed her passing in a statement released yesterday, revealing she died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
“A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity,” the statement read. “She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world.”
News of Jiggly’s health struggles first emerged on 24 April, when her family revealed she had been hospitalised due to a severe infection, resulting in the amputation of most of her right leg.
Since her passing, tributes from Drag Race alumni and fans around the world have poured in, reflecting the deep impact Jiggly made within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community.
Jiggly first graced television screens during season four of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012, later returning for All Stars 6 in 2021. She publicly came out as a trans woman in 2016, becoming an inspirational figure for many.
Beyond Drag Race, Jiggly appeared in the acclaimed series Pose and judged all three seasons of Drag Race Philippines since its inception in 2022.
