Drag performer and actor Jiggly Caliente, known for captivating audiences with fierce performances and advocacy work, faced health complications in the final weeks of life.
According to Breitbart, Jiggly Caliente, whose legal name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning at age 44, surrounded by loved ones, just days after undergoing a major surgical procedure that involved the amputation of the right leg.
The drag star's family shared details about the severe infection that led to hospitalization and the subsequent amputation. The health crisis emerged suddenly, forcing Castro-Arabejo to withdraw from upcoming commitments, including an anticipated appearance on RuPaul's Drag Race Philippines. The performer's condition deteriorated rapidly despite medical intervention.
The family issued two statements within days of each other, first announcing the leg amputation on Thursday and then confirming the death on Sunday. Medical professionals had attempted to save Castro-Arabejo's leg but ultimately determined amputation was necessary due to the aggressive nature of the infection.
The drag performer's family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans worldwide during this difficult time. They emphasized how Castro-Arabejo maintained strength and dignity throughout the ordeal.
The family shared this moving tribute to the performer's impact:
A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity. Though her physical presence is gone, the joy she shared and the space she helped create for so many will remain forever.
Castro-Arabejo first gained widespread recognition as a contestant on season four of RuPaul's Drag Race, where the performer's charisma and talent caught viewers' attention. This led to a return appearance on RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars season six, further cementing Caliente's place in drag entertainment history.
Beyond the drag competition scene, Castro-Arabejo built an impressive acting portfolio. The performer secured a recurring role as Veronica Ferocity on the groundbreaking FX series Pose, which explored New York's ballroom culture.
Additional acting credits demonstrated Castro-Arabejo's range as a performer. These included appearances in the 2020 independent film Milkwater and the 2021 television series Wigs in A Blanket, showcasing versatility across different entertainment formats.
Throughout a career spanning television, film, and live performance, Castro-Arabejo remained committed to advocacy work. The performer used growing visibility to champion causes important to the LGBTQ+ community.
Fellow performers and fans praised Castro-Arabejo's willingness to be vulnerable and authentic in the public eye. This openness helped create safer spaces for others to express themselves freely. The impact of Castro-Arabejo's work extended far beyond entertainment, inspiring countless individuals through a combination of artistic excellence and dedicated activism.
Bianca Castro-Arabejo, widely celebrated as drag performer Jiggly Caliente, passed away on Sunday morning at age 44 after experiencing severe health complications that necessitated the amputation of the right leg. The performer's family confirmed the peaceful passing was witnessed by close friends and relatives at the bedside.
The drag star's legacy encompasses memorable appearances on RuPaul's Drag Race, a recurring role on the series Pose, and various film and television projects. Beyond entertainment achievements, Castro-Arabejo's dedication to advocacy work and creating inclusive spaces leaves an enduring impact on the LGBTQ+ community and the entertainment industry.
