Jiggly Caliente from the cast of "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 6" visits the Empire State Building on June 24, 2021, in New York. AP Photo
Bianca Castro-Arabejo, the beloved drag performer known as Jiggly Caliente from "RuPaul's Drag Race," has passed away at the age of 44. Her family confirmed the news on Sunday, days after revealing that she had been hospitalized due to a serious infection. Castro-Arabejo's death marks a tragic loss for the drag and entertainment communities.
A Bright Star in Entertainment and Advocacy
Castro-Arabejo’s vibrant presence on "RuPaul’s Drag Race" made her a fan favorite, and she continued to inspire after her time on the show. In 2022, she joined the panel as a judge on "Drag Race Philippines." However, she recently had to cancel her participation in the upcoming season due to health complications, including a severe infection and leg amputation surgery.
Her family honored her legacy in a heartfelt tribute. "A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity," they wrote. "She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world."
Jiggly Caliente, From "RuPaul’s Drag Race" to "All Stars"
Castro-Arabejo’s journey began in 2012 when she appeared on the fourth season of "RuPaul’s Drag Race." Her time on the show was marked by her charismatic personality and resilience. She later returned to compete on "RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars," cementing her place as one of the franchise's most beloved queens.
In response to her passing, the official "RuPaul’s Drag Race" Twitter account posted a statement: "Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to slay — always." The post also expressed support for her family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
A Proud Immigrant and Advocate for Representation
Born in the Philippines, Castro-Arabejo immigrated to New York, where she began performing in drag about two decades ago. She rose to prominence in drag competitions and pageants, always emphasizing the importance of cultural representation in the industry. In 2018, she released a hip-hop album titled "T.H.O.T. Process," which featured a track in Tagalog, further showcasing her Filipino heritage.
During her time as a judge on "Drag Race Philippines," Castro-Arabejo spoke passionately about her roots. "When it comes to my culture, I live and breathe that I am Filipina," she said in 2023. "I am a proud immigrant woman."
Coming Out as Transgender and Embracing Her True Self
In 2016, Castro-Arabejo made a groundbreaking decision to publicly come out as transgender. She shared her journey with fans on a podcast, explaining that it was important for her to be open about her identity, especially because many fans reached out to her struggling with their own gender identities.
"I wanted to come out because I was ready to come out," she said in a 2018 Billboard interview. "I have been living as a trans woman for so long, but I just never told the audience and the fans that." Despite the challenges she faced, Castro-Arabejo always emphasized that being a trans woman was not what defined her; it was her artistry and authenticity that truly made her shine.
Bianca Castro-Arabejo’s impact on drag culture, her advocacy for representation, and her fearless authenticity will continue to inspire generations to come. She will be dearly missed by fans and the entire drag community.
