Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Jiggly Caliente, Drag Race Star and LGBTQ+ Advocate, Dies at 44

Bianca Castro-Arebejo, known for her trailblazing career in entertainment and activism, passed away peacefully following complications from a severe infection and leg amputation.

Image
Image
Jiggly Caliente at RuPaul's DragCon 2022 in Los Angeles.
Image

Overview

  • Jiggly Caliente, born Bianca Castro-Arebejo, died on April 27, 2025, surrounded by family and close friends at the age of 44.
  • Her passing followed a severe infection that led to the amputation of most of her right leg days earlier, as confirmed by her family.
  • Caliente gained fame on season 4 of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012, later returning for All Stars 6 and serving as a judge on Drag Race Philippines starting in 2022.
  • She publicly came out as transgender in 2016 and used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and Filipino representation in media.
  • Tributes from fans, fellow performers, and LGBTQ+ organizations have poured in, celebrating her legacy of artistry, humor, and activism.