The Luminous Life And Legacy Of Jiggly Caliente: 7 Essential Facts About The 'Drag Race' Icon's Inspiring Journey

The world of drag and television mourned a profound loss in 2025, as beloved Filipino-American drag performer and actress Jiggly Caliente, also known as Bianca Castro-Arabejo, passed away. The news, confirmed in late April 2025, sent shockwaves through the global LGBTQ+ community and the dedicated fanbase she cultivated through her appearances on RuPaul's Drag Race, Pose, and Drag Race Philippines. This article serves as a tribute to her vibrant life, celebrating her groundbreaking career, her courageous personal journey, and the indelible mark she left on the entertainment industry.

The information here is current as of December 2025, reflecting the final chapter of a multifaceted career that spanned two decades. From her unforgettable charisma on the runway to her powerful work as a transgender actress, Jiggly Caliente's story is one of resilience, humor, and unwavering authenticity. We delve into her biography, her most significant professional milestones, and the circumstances surrounding her final days, honoring the legacy of a true drag superstar.

Jiggly Caliente: Biography and Profile

• Full Name: Bianca Castro-Arabejo
• Stage Name: Jiggly Caliente
• Date of Birth: November 29, 1980
• Date of Death: April 27, 2025
• Age at Death: 44
• Cause of Death: Severe infection following a health setback
• Birthplace: San Pedro, Laguna, Philippines
• Hometown (US): Queens, New York
• Nationality: Filipino-American
• Gender Identity: Transgender Woman
• Occupation: Drag Performer, Actress, Television Personality, Singer
• Notable TV Appearances: RuPaul's Drag Race (Season 4 & All Stars 6), Pose, Drag Race Philippines (Judge)
• Estimated Net Worth: Approximately $1.5 Million (at time of passing)

7 Essential Facts About Jiggly Caliente's Enduring Legacy

Jiggly Caliente's career was a tapestry woven with humor, heart, and a relentless commitment to visibility. Her journey went far beyond the werkroom of Drag Race, solidifying her status as a cultural icon and a trailblazer for Filipino-American and transgender performers.

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1. Her Groundbreaking Role on RuPaul's Drag Race

Jiggly Caliente first burst into the mainstream consciousness as a contestant on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 4 in 2012. While she finished in eighth place, her infectious personality, signature high-energy performances, and memorable catchphrases—including her famous "jiggly" dance moves—made her an instant fan favorite. Her return for RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 6 in 2021 showcased her growth, maturity, and greatly improved fashion sense, proving her longevity in the competitive drag world.

2. The Power of Her Transgender Journey and Visibility

A significant part of Jiggly's later career was her open discussion about her transition. She publicly came out as a transgender woman in 2020. This announcement resonated deeply with her fanbase, and she used her platform to advocate for transgender rights and visibility, particularly within the Filipino-American community. Her honesty and openness served as a powerful source of inspiration, making her a vital voice in the conversation surrounding gender identity in the media. Her identity was central to her artistry and advocacy.

3. A Pivotal Acting Career on 'Pose'

Beyond the drag stage, Jiggly Caliente established a credible acting career. Her most notable role was on the critically acclaimed FX series Pose, a show centered on New York City's ballroom culture. She played the recurring character Veronica, a member of the House of Evangelista. Her participation in Pose was crucial, as it allowed her to act alongside other prominent transgender talents and further cement her status as a serious actress, not just a reality TV personality. This role significantly broadened her appeal and cemented her as an important figure in mainstream television.

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4. Becoming a Judge for Drag Race Philippines

In a powerful full-circle moment, Jiggly Caliente was announced as a permanent judge for the inaugural season of Drag Race Philippines in 2022. As a Filipino-American queen, her role on the panel was deeply significant, connecting the global Drag Race franchise back to her heritage and giving her a platform to mentor a new generation of Filipino drag artists. She brought her unique blend of humor and constructive criticism to the judging table, becoming a beloved fixture of the show. She was scheduled to appear in an upcoming season but had to withdraw due to health issues.

5. The Tragic Health Battle Leading to Her Passing

In the final months of her life, Jiggly faced a severe and sudden health crisis. In early 2025, her family announced that she was dealing with a "serious health setback" that led to a severe infection. This condition necessitated the amputation of "most of her right leg." Her extensive recovery and subsequent passing on April 27, 2025, were a devastating conclusion to her battle. The news highlighted the fragility of life and the immense strength she showed in her final public communications.

6. The Impact of Her Filipino Roots on Her Art

Jiggly Caliente consistently celebrated her Filipino heritage throughout her career. Born in the Philippines and raised in Queens, New York, her cultural background informed her drag aesthetic and her public persona. She often spoke about the importance of representing her community, not only as a drag queen but as a transgender Filipino-American woman. Her work on Drag Race Philippines was the crowning achievement of this commitment, allowing her to directly contribute to the visibility of Filipino talent on a global stage.

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7. A Lasting Influence on Drag and Pop Culture

Jiggly Caliente's influence extends beyond her specific projects. She is remembered as a queen who exemplified resilience, turning her early struggles on Drag Race into a platform for continuous growth and success. Her transition story and her acting roles paved the way for greater inclusion of transgender performers in mainstream media. Her legacy is defined by her joyous spirit, her unapologetic self-expression, and her role as a bridge between American and Filipino drag cultures. Her passing is a reminder of the need to celebrate the lives and contributions of LGBTQ+ pioneers while they are here.