‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ star Jiggly Caliente dies at 44

Bianca Castro-Arabejo, best known to fans as Jiggly Caliente from RuPaul’s Drag Race, has died at the age of 44. Her family announced she died peacefully early Sunday, days after being hospitalized for a severe infection that led to surgery and the amputation of part of her right leg.

The Philippine-born Castro-Arabejo, whose drag name was inspired by Jigglypuff from Pokémon, first rose to prominence in 2012 on season four of RuPaul’s Drag Race, on which she became a fan favorite for her humor and charisma. She later returned for RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, season six, and served as a judge for three seasons on Drag Race Philippines. She was also known for her role as Veronica Ferocity on the acclaimed Ryan Murphy series Pose.

“A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity,” her family said in their statement on Sunday. “She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world.”