The vibrant drag performer Bianca Castro-Arabejo, affectionately known to millions as the reality TV sensation Jiggly Caliente from "RuPaul's Drag Race," passed away on Sunday at the age of 44, mere days after her family announced her hospitalization due to a grave infection. Having ascended to the role of a judge on "Drag Race Philippines" in 2022, Castro-Arabejo was forced to cancel her participation in the upcoming season following a recent hospitalization for a "severe infection" and subsequent leg amputation surgery, as revealed in a heartfelt statement posted on her Instagram page by her family.
Her family issued another statement announcing her passing early Sunday morning. "A radiant beacon in the realms of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was renowned for her contagious energy, sharp humor, and uncompromising authenticity," they eulogized. "She enriched countless lives through her artistic endeavors, activism, and the profound bonds she forged with fans across the globe."
Castro-Arabejo made her mark on the fourth season of "RuPaul's Drag Race" and later graced the stage again in "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars." A statement from "RuPaul's Drag Race," published on X, echoed, "Her talent, honesty, and influence will forever remain etched in our memories, and her legacy will continue to shine brightly. Our hearts are with her family, friends, and fans during this trying time."
Born in the Philippines, Castro-Arabejo embarked on a journey to New York, where she embarked on her drag career some two decades ago, participating in numerous competitions and pageants. She drew inspiration from her upbringing, emphasizing its significance for representation in the industry. In 2018, she released a hip-hop album titled "T.H.O.T. Process," featuring a track where she rapped in Tagalog, paying homage to her roots.
During a 2023 episode of the reality series "Bring Back My Girls," which reunited various performers from the "Drag Race" franchise, Castro-Arabejo underscored the importance of her role as a judge due to her heritage. "When it comes to my culture, I embody and breathe the pride of being Filipina," she declared. "I am a proud immigrant woman."
She bravely came out as transgender in 2016 on a podcast, inspired in part by letters from fans grappling with their own gender identities. "I wanted to come out because I was finally ready. I had been living as a trans woman for a long time, but I never disclosed it to my audience and fans," she shared in a 2018 Billboard interview. "I was transitioning while on the show, but I chose not to make it my storyline. Being a trans woman is not what defines me."
