The drag and LGBTQIA+ communities are mourning the heartbreaking loss of beloved drag queen and Drag Race Philippines judge Jiggly Caliente, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 AM. She was surrounded by her loving family and close friends.
Jiggly — whose real name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo — was a luminous presence in the world of drag and advocacy. She first rose to international fame on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 4 before becoming a celebrated judge on Drag Race Philippines, using her platform to champion LGBTQIA+ rights and representation, both in the Philippines and globally.
Just last week, Jiggly revealed a serious health setback that led to the loss of most of her right leg, sharing her recovery journey with fans through a heartfelt Instagram post. The announcement prompted an outpouring of love and support from fans, fellow performers, and the wider drag community. She also announced that she would be stepping back from the upcoming season of Drag Race Philippines to focus on her healing.
Today, an update was posted on her official Instagram account, confirming the heartbreaking news of her passing.
In a private statement shared by her family, they honored Jiggly’s life and legacy:
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. Bianca passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 am, surrounded by her loving family and close friends.
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.
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.
In Loving Memory of Bianca Castro-Arabejo (Jiggly Caliente)
Jiggly Caliente’s impact reaches far beyond the stage. Through her art, activism, and openness, she created a home for countless people seeking representation, acceptance, and joy. Her memory will live on in the lives she touched and the doors she helped open.
A Trailblazing Force in Drag
Jiggly Caliente was a trailblazer in the world of drag long before mainstream audiences embraced the art form. After competing on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 4, she became known for her fierce performances, magnetic energy, and raw vulnerability, earning a permanent place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Beyond the main stage, Jiggly continued to shine as a performer, musician, actress, and advocate. She appeared in hit series like Pose, released music that celebrated her identity and journey, and used every opportunity to uplift trans women and the broader LGBTQIA+ community. Her promotion to the judging panel of Drag Race Philippines was seen by many as a full-circle moment — from contestant to respected mentor and voice of representation in the franchise.
Through it all, Jiggly remained true to herself: fearless, funny, and full of heart. She leaves behind a legacy that paved the way for countless queens, especially trans women of color, to step into the spotlight without apology.
Rest in power, Jiggly. Thank you for everything.
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