Remembering Jiggly Caliente: A Light Gone Too Soon
The LGBTQ+ community is heartbroken. We lost Jiggly Caliente, a beloved drag queen and RuPaul’s Drag Race star, on April 27, 2025. She was only 44. It’s still hard to believe. This isn't just a story about a famous person; it's about a life, a legacy, and a woman – Bianca Castro-Arabejo – who brought so much joy to the world.
A Star is Born (and Then Shines Brightly)
Jiggly first exploded onto our screens in season four of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Honestly, who could forget her? Her energy was infectious. She was hilarious, quick-witted, and absolutely fearless. Those lip sync battles? Legendary. She became a fan favorite instantly. Then, she slayed on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars season six, cementing her place in Drag Race history. But she wasn't just a reality TV star. She acted in Pose, a show that means so much to so many, and she even judged Drag Race Philippines. She was a powerful voice, a truly important figure for the LGBTQ+ community, especially as a proud transgender woman.
Facing Challenges with Unwavering Strength
News of Jiggly’s passing came after we learned about her hospitalization and leg amputation. It was a difficult time, a rollercoaster of emotions for her family and fans. But even through all of that, her family described her as a "luminous presence." That's the Jiggly I knew – bright, full of life, even when faced with impossible challenges. Tributes poured in from everywhere – fellow queens, celebrities, and countless fans. Michelle Visage, a Drag Race judge, said it perfectly: Jiggly was "one of the best humans walking this earth."
So Much More Than Just a Persona
Jiggly’s influence extended way beyond the stage. She was a trailblazer, a fierce advocate, and a genuine, kind friend to so many. Her open embrace of her transgender identity made her a role model, someone so many looked up to. Her album, T.H.O.T. Process, shows another side of her talent. It's a testament to her artistry and a beautiful addition to her legacy.
A Legacy of Laughter, Love, and Light
Jiggly’s death is devastating, a real loss for everyone who knew her and for the world she touched. But her spirit? It’s still shining. Her contributions to drag culture, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and entertainment are immeasurable. We can celebrate her life by watching her on RuPaul’s Drag Race, Pose, and Drag Race Philippines. Let’s remember Jiggly Caliente for her laughter, her love, and that undeniable light she carried with her.
Keywords: Jiggly Caliente, Bianca Castro-Arabejo, RuPaul’s Drag Race, Drag Race Philippines, transgender, LGBTQ+, death, obituary, tribute, legacy, RuPaul, Michelle Visage, Pose, drag queen, Filipino-American, leg amputation
