The global RuPaul’s Drag Race community has come together to mourn the sudden death of personality Jiggly Caliente.
Caliente (real name Bianca Castro) died on Sunday, April 27, at the age of 44.
“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,” a statement from Caliente’s family read. “Bianca passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at 4:42 a.m., surrounded by her loving family and close friends.”
The statement added, “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.”
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Caliente competed on season 4 of Drag Race, finishing in eighth place, before returning for the sixth iteration of All-Stars in 2021. Starting in 2022, Caliente served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines.
“Her legacy is one of love, courage and light,” Caliente’s family added. “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.”
Following Caliente’s death, several members of the Drag Race world shared emotional tributes. Keep scrolling to read more:
Michelle Visage
“My heart, my soul, my jiggles. … I will always love you,” Visage wrote via Instagram comment.
Jaremi Carey
Carey noted in a lengthy X statement on Sunday that Caliente’s death is “awful and heartbreaking.
“I haven’t been able to eat or sleep,” Carey wrote. “I have just been a shell of the person I was prior to this tragedy. I’ve cried more than ever, and the pain I’ve felt is something I’ve never felt before. I’m truly, and honestly, not OK right now.”
According to Carey, he also “rushed to the hospital” to hold Caliente’s hand when she had her leg amputated earlier in April.
“We played her a goodbye song as the nurses and doctors rolled her bed through those double doors … an image I will never get out of my hed,” he recalled, “I wish we could call each other one last time, since you were the only person I could take for hours with on the phone.”
Carey continued, “I hope you know how proud I am of the woman you grew up to be and the spaces and hearts you touched. You have been a fighter your entire life and you will always be remembered for living life authentically and truthfully.”
Jujubee
She replied to Caliente’s family statement, “I love you, my sister. I will forever remember our giggles together. I’m so grateful we met this lifetime. 
.”
Morphine Love Dion
“I cannot stop crying,” she wrote via Instagram. “I love you so much I wish I can hug you one more time. This can’t be real.”
Baga Chipz
The U.K. personality referred to Caliente as “one of the most kindest, sweetest souls” in an Instagram tribute.
“I’m gonna miss you, beautiful,” Baga Chips added. Thank you for always being so lovely. Rest easy, legend. Sending your family so much love right now. .”
Kerry Colby
“Auntie, we will miss you and carry your love for eternity! Fly high 
,” Colby penned.
