Each week, contestants on RuPaul’s Drag Race face new challenges in their quest for the crown.
The reality competition series has aired for seventeen seasons, spawning multiple spinoffs, including RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars and RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked.
Now, fans are mourning the loss of one of the show’s most beloved and iconic stars.
Paying tribute online, one fan wrote, “You were an icon, a true legend.”
“RIP, a legend,” another added. “She was unbelievably talented.”
A third shared, “She was an absolute icon who brought so much light and love to the Drag Race community.”
One more commented, “I’m heartbroken to read this. I remember her season—she was a star with such a beautiful spirit. Taken too young.”
The family of 44-year-old Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known professionally as Jiggly Caliente, has confirmed her passing.
In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, they wrote: “With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Bianca Castro-Arabejo, beloved by many as Jiggly Caliente.”
They revealed that she passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning, “surrounded by her loving family and close friends.”
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Caliente’s family honored the reality TV star’s “infectious energy, sharp wit, and unwavering authenticity.”
“They touched countless lives through her artistry, activism, and the genuine bond she formed with fans around the world,” the statement continued.
“Although her physical presence is no longer with us, the joy she spread and the safe space she created for so many will live on forever.”
The official RuPaul’s Drag Race X (formerly Twitter) account paid tribute, writing:
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Jiggly Caliente, a beloved member of the Drag Race family.
“Her talent, truth, and impact will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to slay—always.
“Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and fans during this incredibly difficult time.”
Fellow drag queens have also shared heartfelt tributes.
Laganja Estranja, from the sixth season of the U.S. version of RuPaul’s Drag Race, remembered Caliente as a “kind, caring soul.”
Baga Chipz, from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, described her as “one of the kindest, sweetest souls I’ve ever met.”
Caliente’s family shared with fans that the reality star had been facing a “severe health setback” earlier this month.
They revealed that the 44-year-old had been hospitalized and tragically lost most of her right leg due to a “severe infection.”
