RuPaul’s Drag Race Star Was 44

RuPaul’s Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente has died aged 44, her family has announced.

Caliente – real name Bianca Castro -had in recent days suffered a serious health setback which included the loss of her right leg.

Her family made the following announcement Sunday:

“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Bianca Castro-Arebejo, 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.

“A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity.

“She touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine connection she fostered with fans around the world.

“Her legacy is one of love, courage, and light. Though her physical presence is gone, the joy she shared and the space she helped create for so many will remain forever.

“She will be deeply missed, always loved, and eternally remembered.

“In Loving Memory of Bianca Castro-Arebejo (Jiggly Caliente)November 29, 1980 – April 27, 2025.”

Three days ago, Caliente’s family announced that the star had suffered a health setback with a severe infection, saying she was hospitalized and, as a result, had undergone the loss of most of her right leg.”

Caliente found fame joining season four of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2011. Following that breakthrough, her acting career took off with a role in the season two finale of Broad City. More recently she co-hosted Translation, the first talk show on a major network hosted by all-trans cast, and she appeared as a judge on Drag Race Philippines.

Caliente came out publicly as transgender in 2016.