A beloved star from RuPaul's Drag Race has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
According to Breitbart, Jiggly Caliente, also known as Bianca Castro-Arabejo, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning at age 44, surrounded by family and close friends, just days after undergoing a right leg amputation due to complications from a severe infection.
The drag performer's family announced the tragic news through a heartfelt statement on social media, emphasizing Castro-Arabejo's impact on both the entertainment world and advocacy efforts. The statement highlighted the performer's infectious energy and unwavering authenticity that touched countless lives through artistic expression and activism.
Just days before the performer's death, Castro-Arabejo's family revealed the severity of the health crisis that had emerged over the past month. The infection had become so severe that medical professionals had to amputate most of the right leg. This devastating setback forced Castro-Arabejo to withdraw from upcoming commitments, including an anticipated appearance on RuPaul's Drag Race Philippines.
The family shared their initial hopes for recovery, noting that the rehabilitation process would be extensive. However, the situation took an unexpected turn, leading to Castro-Arabejo's untimely death on Sunday morning.
A statement from the family conveyed their grief while celebrating Castro-Arabejo's lasting 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 the fourth season of RuPaul's Drag Race. The performer's charismatic presence and memorable performances led to a return appearance on the sixth season of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars, further cementing their place in drag entertainment history.
Beyond the reality competition sphere, Castro-Arabejo ventured into scripted television with a recurring role as Veronica Ferocity on the groundbreaking FX series Pose. The performer's acting portfolio expanded to include appearances in the 2020 film Milkwater and the 2021 television series Wigs in A Blanket.
Castro-Arabejo's influence extended beyond performing, as they became an important voice for LGBTQ+ rights and representation in mainstream media. Their authentic approach to storytelling and advocacy work helped create more inclusive spaces in entertainment.
Castro-Arabejo's family emphasized how the performer's work transcended traditional entertainment boundaries. Their contributions to drag culture and LGBTQ+ visibility have left an enduring impact on future generations of performers and activists.
The performer's dedication to authenticity and creative expression inspired countless fans worldwide. Through various artistic mediums and platforms, Castro-Arabejo consistently championed inclusivity and self-expression.
The immediate outpouring of support from fans and fellow entertainers demonstrates the profound influence Castro-Arabejo had on the drag community and beyond.
Jiggly Caliente's journey came to an end following severe health complications that led to a leg amputation and, ultimately, death at age 44. The beloved drag performer, known both as Jiggly Caliente and Bianca Castro-Arabejo, departed peacefully on Sunday morning while surrounded by loved ones. The loss reverberates through the entertainment industry, particularly impacting the upcoming season of RuPaul's Drag Race Philippines, where Castro-Arabejo was set to appear before the health crisis emerged.
