Drag performer Jiggly Caliente has died after a ‘serious health setback’ led to a leg amputation just days ago, with the likes of Michelle Visage leading heartfelt tributes.
The 44-year-old RuPaul’s Drag Race star—whose real name is Bianca Castro—suffered a ‘severe infection’ that led to the operation.
Her family shared that she passed away ‘peacefully’ in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The news was announced by Castro’s family in a statement on Instagram, which read: ‘Private Statement from the Family of Bianca Castro (Jiggly Caliente)
‘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. 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.’
The statement concluded: ‘In Loving Memory of Bianca Castro-Arabejo (Jiggly Caliente) November 29, 1980 – April 27, 2025’
Castro was born in San Pedro, Laguna, in the Philippines and moved to America with her mum and brother age 10, where they lived in Queens, New York City.
The performer’s family revealed earlier this week that she had suffered a ‘severe infection’ that required amputation of her right leg. They said her recovery would be ‘extensive’ in a statement on social media.
‘The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last
month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback,’ they began.
‘Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalised and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg.’
The Drag Race Philippines resident judge will not be appearing on the upcoming season, ‘nor will she be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future,’ the Pose star’s family said, adding: ‘Her recovery will be extensive.’
‘At this time, we kindly ask for privacy for Bianca and her family as they navigate this difficult journey together. While Jiggly concentrates on healing, we invite her friends, fans, and community to uplift her
with messages of hope and love on her social media channels.
‘Bianca’s family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers.’
Jiggly was placed eighth on the fourth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012 and appeared on All Stars season six in 2021, having come out as a trans woman in 2016.
On her birthday in November, Jiggly celebrated another year ‘around the sun’.
‘Seems like a whole lifetime has passed. Another run around the sun. Here’s to making it to 44,’ she said.
‘My kind usually don’t make it passed 35. I’ve honestly lived a rollercoaster of a life. Good the bad everything has made me the woman I am today. Hopefully more to come.’
The news of Jiggly’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief, particularly from the drag community.
On Instagram, BBC Radio 2 DJ and RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Visage wrote: ‘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.’
Drag star Laganja Estranga also commented on the announcement post: ‘So heartbreaking 😢 such a kind, caring soul!! She will be greatly missed ❤️🙏🏼’
Miss Jade So, another performer, commented: ‘Ma… 🥺💔 I love you so much! I will miss you!’
Model Munroe Bergdorf commented on the post: ‘Sending love to all her family and friends.’
Australian drag queen Hannah Conda wrote: ‘Oh my god. My heart is broken! Fly high our queen xxx.’
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