The Tragic Truth: What Happened To Jiggly Caliente? A Full Tribute To The Drag Race Icon

The news of Jiggly Caliente’s death on April 27, 2025, sent a shockwave through the global drag and LGBTQ+ communities. The beloved Filipino-American transgender performer, best known for her infectious energy and appearances on RuPaul's Drag Race and Pose, passed away at the age of 44. This article, updated in December 2025, aims to provide a definitive look at the tragic circumstances surrounding her untimely death, her remarkable career, and the profound legacy she leaves behind as a trailblazer in entertainment.

The outpouring of grief and tributes from fellow queens, celebrities, and fans underscores the immense impact of Bianca Castro-Arabejo—the woman behind the iconic drag persona. Her passing, which followed a severe and sudden health crisis, has prompted a collective remembrance of her vibrant life, her resilience, and her crucial role in representing the Trans and Filipino communities on a massive platform.

A Life in the Spotlight: Jiggly Caliente's Full Biography

Jiggly Caliente, born Bianca Castro-Arabejo, was a force of nature whose journey from Queens, New York, to global stardom was marked by unwavering authenticity and a powerful commitment to visibility. Her career spanned over a decade, making her one of the most recognizable and influential figures in contemporary drag culture.

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Full Profile & Biography:

• Birth Name: Bianca Castro-Arabejo
• Professional Name: Jiggly Caliente
• Date of Birth: November 29, 1980
• Date of Death: April 27, 2025
• Age at Death: 44
• Hometown: Queens, New York (Originally from San Pedro, Laguna, Philippines)
• Nationality: Filipino-American
• Gender Identity: Transgender Woman
• Known For: Contestant on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 4 and All Stars 6, Actress on FX's Pose, Judge on Drag Race Philippines.
• Cause of Death: Complications from a severe infection, which led to a leg amputation.
• Drag Family: Part of the legendary House of Caliente.

Jiggly first captured the hearts of millions during Season 4 of RuPaul's Drag Race in 2012. While she finished in eighth place, her emotional vulnerability, quick wit, and unforgettable "New York City" runway look cemented her status as a fan-favorite. A decade later, her return for RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 6 showcased her growth, both as a polished performer and a proud transgender woman, providing a powerful, full-circle moment for her career and her fans.

The Tragic Circumstances: Jiggly Caliente's Cause of Death

The news of Jiggly Caliente's passing was particularly devastating because of its sudden and severe nature. Unlike a prolonged illness, her death followed a rapid deterioration in health that shocked her colleagues and followers.

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A Severe Infection and Health Setback

In the days leading up to her death, Jiggly's family confirmed she was battling a "severe infection." The specific nature of the infection was not immediately disclosed, but it was aggressive and life-threatening. This health crisis quickly escalated, leading to a major medical intervention.

The Amputation: A Last Resort

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The most heartbreaking detail of her final days was the necessity of a major surgery. Due to the severity and spread of the infection, Jiggly underwent a leg amputation. This drastic measure was a last-ditch effort to save her life. Unfortunately, despite the medical team's best efforts, she succumbed to complications from the severe infection and the subsequent health setback just days after the surgery.

Her family and friends have confirmed that she passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at the age of 44. The outpouring of support immediately following the announcement demonstrated the deep connection she had forged with people all over the world. The circumstances of her death serve as a stark reminder of how quickly health can decline, even for those who appear to be vibrant and active in their careers.

More Than Just Drag: Jiggly's Legacy on Pose and Drag Race Philippines

While RuPaul's Drag Race was her launchpad, Jiggly Caliente's career extended far beyond the Werk Room, establishing her as a serious actress and a respected voice in the global drag community. Her work on the hit FX series Pose and her role as a judge on Drag Race Philippines are crucial parts of her lasting legacy.

The Role of Veronica Ferocity in Pose

From 2018 to 2021, Jiggly Caliente had a recurring role on Ryan Murphy's critically acclaimed drama series, Pose. She played the character of Veronica Ferocity, a member of the ballroom scene's House of Ferocity. This role was monumental, as it placed a beloved drag queen and openly transgender woman in a prominent acting position on a major network show that celebrated LGBTQ+ culture. Her performance was lauded for its authenticity and for contributing to a historic moment of transgender and non-binary representation in television.

A Homegrown Icon: Drag Race Philippines

In 2022, Jiggly returned to the Drag Race franchise, but this time as a permanent judge on Drag Race Philippines. This was a deeply meaningful role, allowing her, as a proud Filipino-American, to mentor and critique the next generation of drag talent in her ancestral home. Her presence on the judging panel was a powerful symbol of the global reach and influence of Filipino drag and a testament to her status as a cultural icon.

A Transgender Trailblazer

Jiggly's transition and her openness about her journey were a source of strength and inspiration for countless fans. She was a prominent figure who used her platform to advocate for transgender rights and visibility, particularly within the entertainment industry. Her death is not just the loss of an entertainer, but the loss of a vital voice for the community she so passionately represented.

The Tributes: How the Drag World Remembers Jiggly Caliente

The reaction to Jiggly Caliente’s death was immediate and widespread, with tributes pouring in from nearly every corner of the entertainment industry. The collective grief highlighted how deeply she was loved and respected by her peers.

RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Tribute

In a powerful and moving gesture, the premiere of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 10 included a special on-air tribute to the late queen. The segment honored her life and career, ensuring her memory was celebrated on the very platform that launched her to fame. This tribute, which featured the words "Forever Fabulous," was a touching moment for the global fandom.

Tributes from Fellow Queens

Numerous Drag Race alumni and stars of the show shared their condolences and memories. Queens like Manila Luzon, Honey Davenport, and Ra'Jah O'Hara, all of whom shared deep personal and professional connections with Jiggly, posted emotional tributes. Manila Luzon, a close friend and fellow Filipino-American queen, delivered a moving eulogy, praising Jiggly's kindness, humor, and unwavering spirit. The messages consistently highlighted her infectious laugh, her generosity, and her ability to make everyone around her feel seen and loved.

Jiggly Caliente's life was a testament to resilience, talent, and the power of living authentically. Though her death at 44 was tragic and premature, her legacy as a beloved drag queen, a pioneering transgender actress, and a cultural icon will undoubtedly endure for generations to come. Her spirit, her fierce wit, and her unforgettable contributions to the worlds of drag and television will ensure that she is forever remembered as a true queen.