Jiggly Caliente gained widespread recognition as a multifaceted drag performer, singer, television personality, and passionate activist long before she became a household name on RuPaul’s Drag Race. The reality competition served as a significant springboard for her burgeoning career; however, Jiggly, whose birth name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo, had been steadily paving her way to stardom through various television appearances, including a memorable sketch on Saturday Night Live. Tragically, Jiggly’s life came to an untimely end at the age of 44 in April 2025, due to complications arising from an unknown infection, which, according to her family, necessitated a leg amputation.
Hollywood Life has compiled a comprehensive list of five revealing facts about Jiggly Caliente, as we honor her remarkable life and impactful career in the entertainment industry.
Discover Jiggly Caliente’s Roots in the Philippines
Jiggly Caliente was born in San Pedro, Laguna, in the Philippines, and later relocated to the United States with her family. She spent her formative years in Sunnyside, Queens, New York City, where her cultural background and diverse influences shaped her iconic style and persona. Her journey from the Philippines to the bustling streets of New York City played a significant role in her development as a performer, allowing her to blend her rich heritage with the vibrant energy of urban life.
Uncover the Inspiration Behind Jiggly Caliente’s Unique Drag Name
Jiggly Caliente shared that her original drag stage name, Jiggly Puff, was inspired by the beloved Pokémon character Jigglypuff. In an interview with The Socialite Life in 2019, she explained her choice, highlighting the playful and whimsical nature of her persona. This clever nod to pop culture not only resonated with her fans but also showcased her ability to connect with a wider audience, blending elements of nostalgia and humor into her drag performances.
Jiggly Caliente’s Role in the Groundbreaking Series Pose
In addition to her reality TV fame, Jiggly Caliente made a significant impact as an actress by portraying the character Veronica Ferocity in the critically acclaimed FX series Pose. The show, which explores the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in the ballroom culture of the 1980s and 1990s, offered Jiggly a platform to showcase her acting talents while also raising awareness about important social issues. Her role in Pose further solidified her status as a versatile entertainer and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
Jiggly Caliente’s Early School Experience and Resilience
During her early life, Jiggly Caliente faced challenges that shaped her resilience and character. She recounted a surprising incident from first grade in which she was expelled from school after an altercation with a bully. This incident occurred when a classmate repeatedly taunted her about her body. In a candid interview, Jiggly shared, “Well, when I was in first grade, I actually got expelled from school because of the way I dealt with a bully.” She recounted how she had sharpened her pencil, waiting for the bully to provoke her, leading to a dramatic confrontation that resulted in her expulsion.
This moment of childhood adversity highlighted Jiggly’s determination to stand up against bullying. She explained, “This kid kept poking at my stomach and calling me fat, so … I asked the teacher if I could sharpen my pencil. I sharpened my pencil and I waited for him to do something. Sure enough, he poked me and said, ‘Hey porker, porker, porker!’ and I stabbed him in the hand with my pencil. … And I got expelled from school.” This experience not only shaped her perspective on body image and self-acceptance but also fueled her advocacy efforts later in life.
Understanding the Circumstances Surrounding Jiggly Caliente’s Untimely Death
In April 2025, Jiggly Caliente faced a severe health crisis that led to her hospitalization due to an unknown infection. Tragically, her family announced that she underwent a leg amputation as a consequence of this serious medical condition. The news sent shockwaves through her fanbase and the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the precarious nature of health and the challenges faced by many in the entertainment industry. The family shared this heartbreaking update via an official Instagram statement.
In their poignant message, they expressed, “The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback.” They elaborated on the situation, stating, “Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg.” This news underscored the fragility of life and the unforeseen challenges that can arise, even for those who seem vibrant and full of life.
Just three days later, Jiggly’s family delivered the devastating news of her passing. Through a heartfelt Instagram statement, they conveyed, “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.” This tragic loss left a void in the hearts of her fans and the broader community, who mourned the loss of a talented and beloved figure in the world of drag.
