New York City, NY — The drag community is mourning the loss of Jiggly Caliente, a beloved figure who played a significant role in promoting Asian representation on reality television. Caliente, whose given name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo, passed away early Saturday at the age of 44 after battling a severe infection that necessitated the amputation of her right leg just days before her death.
Caliente gained fame as a fan-favorite competitor on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2012, quickly winning hearts with her charisma and humor. She later became a judge on “Drag Race Philippines,” contributing her unique perspective and insight to the show’s vibrant culture. Additionally, she appeared in notable series such as “Pose,” where she portrayed the character Veronica, and had guest roles in other popular sitcoms.
“Her exceptional talent and the warmth she brought to each interaction will always be remembered,” stated the official social media account for “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Fellow competitors and friends expressed their grief on social platforms, sharing their memories and the deep impact Caliente had on their lives.
Manila Luzon, another prominent Drag Race alum and long-time friend, described the heartbreak of losing someone she cherished for 25 years. “Rest in peace, little sis. Your glamour will never fade,” she wrote, paying homage to their enduring bond. Season 3 winner Raja also shared her sorrow, and described feeling lost without Caliente, emphasizing the community’s tight-knit connections.
Judge Michelle Visage highlighted their shared laughter and the vibrant energy Caliente brought to every encounter. “You were and continue to be so very loved,” Visage remarked in a heartfelt tribute. Jinkx Monsoon, winner of Season 5, reflected on Caliente’s inspiring life, noting that she embraced every moment fully.
Born in the Philippines and raised in Queens, New York, Caliente consistently showcased her heritage in her performances, drawing pride from her roots. She often referenced her nickname, inspired by the playful Pokémon character Jigglypuff, alongside the Spanish translation of “hot,” beautifully embodying her spirit and personality.
Emerging stars from “Drag Race Philippines,” such as Marina Summers and Jervi Wrightson, also expressed their admiration and love for Caliente, using affectionate terms in Tagalog to convey their sorrow. Their tributes underscored the deep affection and respect she garnered within the community.
Caliente’s passing coincides with the upcoming premiere of the first All-Stars season of “Drag Race Philippines,” which promises to showcase the talents of previous contestants, including Asian queens from various international editions. Her role as a pioneer in the movement for Asian representation will be felt deeply as the show celebrates its dynamic heritage in the vibrant realm of drag.