Jiggly Caliente, ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Alum And ‘Pose’ Actress, Dies At 44

Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known professionally as the drag performer Jiggly Caliente, died early Sunday surrounded by loved ones, according to a post on Instagram by her family. She was 44.

Days earlier, the family had alerted fans of a serious health issue she was facing, revealing that Caliente had undergone the loss of most of her right leg.

“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,” read the post. “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,” concluded the post.

Born November 29, 1980 in San Pedro, Laguna, Phillippines, Bianca Castro-Arabejo moved to the United States in 1991 at age 10 with her mother and brother and lived in Sunnyside in Queens, New York. She came out in junior high school and chose her original drag name, Jiggly Puff, from the Pokémon character Jigglypuff. Eventually she shifted her name to Jiggly Caliente and came out as transgender in 2016.

Caliente first competed on season of reality/competition RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012. She placed eighth and later returned to compete on season six of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars in 2021. She also served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines.

As an actress, Jiggly Caliente had the recurring role of Veronica in the Ryan Murphy FX drama Pose from 2018 to 2021, which was set in the late 1980s to early 1990s and followed the New York City ball culture LGBTQ community.

Caliente also peppered her resume with guest appearances on series like Search Party, Playing House and Broad City.

“This is so devastating. Rest in peace,” wrote fellow RuPaul’s Drag Race star Jackie Cox on social media.

“Damn man…today we lost a sister and heaven gained an angel,” wrote Canada’s Drag Race: Canada vs the World winner Ra’Jah O’Hara, who competed against her on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars . “We will continue to speak your name ‘BIANCA’ and share your light. Thanks for all the laughs, the Kiki, the listening hear, shoulder the cry, the reading for filth, the masterful shade and endless love. Pain no more, fly high sister💜🕊️ Y’all prayer for her brother and other family/ friends.”

“We are devastated by the passing of Jiggly Caliente, a cherished member of the Drag Race family.” wrote the RuPaul’s Drag Race Facebook page. “Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to slay—always.”