Jiggly Caliente dies at 44: What was the cause of RuPaul's Drag Race Star's death?

By: Shawn
‎Bianca Castro-Arabejo, best known to fans worldwide as Jiggly Caliente, has died at the age of 44. The beloved drag performer, actress, and LGBTQ+ advocate passed away in the early hours of Sunday, April 27, 2025, just days after undergoing a leg amputation due to a severe infection.
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‎'Bianca Castro-Arabejo.'
‎Getty Images 
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‎Her family confirmed the news through a heartfelt statement posted on Caliente’s official Instagram page.
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‎“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,” the statement read. “Bianca passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends.”
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‎Caliente’s family remembered her as “a luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy,” highlighting the impact she had through her work and personal connection with fans. “Her legacy is one of love, courage, and light,” they said. “She will be deeply missed, always loved, and eternally remembered.”
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‎Just three days prior, on April 24, Caliente’s family had revealed she had experienced a serious health setback requiring the amputation of her right leg. As a result, she had withdrawn from her role as a judge on the upcoming season of RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines and canceled all public engagements.
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‎Jiggly Caliente rose to fame in 2011 as a contestant on Season 4 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, where her charisma and vulnerability quickly made her a fan favorite. She returned in All Stars Season 6 and became an outspoken advocate for trans rights after publicly coming out as transgender in 2016.
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‎The drag community and fans across the world have expressed their grief and paid tribute to Caliente’s enduring influence.
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‎“So heartbreaking. Such a kind, caring soul!! She will be greatly missed,” wrote fellow Drag Race alum Laganja Estranja.
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‎Divina De Campo of Drag Race UK added, “All my love to the family. She was always such a supportive sister.”
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‎“Forever and always Jiggly Caliente BROOKS. We love you forever sister,” said Mistress Isabelle Brooks, from Season 15.
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‎Jiggly Caliente’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who admired her talent, strength, and dedication to uplifting marginalized voices. Her impact on the drag and transgender communities will be remembered and celebrated for generations.

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