RuPaul’s Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente has died aged 43, just days after having her right leg amputated due to a ‘severe infection’.

Bianca Castro, who rose to fame in 2011 and is known by her stage name Jiggly Caliente, pᴀssed away ‘peacefully’ in the early hours of Sunday morning ‘surrounded by her family and friends’.

The tragic news was announced by the Filipino-American’s heartbroken family in a statement on Instagram, which read: ‘Private Statement from the Family of Bianca Castro (Jiggly Caliente)

‘It is with profound sorrow that we announce the pᴀssing of Bianca Castro-Arebejo, known to the world and cherished by many as Jiggly Caliente. 

‘Bianca pᴀssed 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. 

RuPaul’s Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente, real name Bianca Castro, has died aged 43, just days after having her right leg amputated due to a ‘severe infection’

The Filipino-American star, who rose to fame in 2011 and is known by her stage name Jiggly Caliente, pᴀssed away ‘peacefully’ in the early hours of Sunday morning

The tragic news was announced by Bianca’s heartbroken family in a statement on Instagram

‘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.’

Heartfelt tributes poured in after the tragic news was announced from fans and fellow drag queens.

One wrote: ‘My heart aches, I love you, i love you, i love you. It is my hopes that you are at peace now.’

Thai drag queen Pangina Heals penned: ‘I love u so much babes. Thank you for your friendship. You always make me laugh and lit up every room. Your laugh is my favorite and I will always cherish you.’

Drag star Ella Vaday wrote: ‘Omg so sad, always so sweet to me, Rest in Power girl.’

Actress Kalad Karen shared: ‘I love you my sister’.

Heartfelt tributes poured in after the tragic news was announced from fans and fellow drag queens

On Thursday, Bianca’s family revealed she had her right leg amputated, following a ‘severe infection’ 

Jiggly was announced to be one of thirteen contestants in the fourth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race on November 13, 2011

Since the show, Jiggly come out as a transgender woman

In 2021, Jiggly was announced to be one of the 13 queens returning for RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars Season 6, but missed out on the crown and was eliminated in the second episode, placing twelfth overall

On Thursday, Bianca’s family revealed she had her right leg amputated, following a ‘severe infection’.

They shared on Instagram: ‘The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback.

‘Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg.

‘Because of these circumstances, Bianca will not be appearing in the upcoming season of RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines, nor will she be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future. Her recovery will be extensive.’

They continued: ‘At this time, we kindly ask for privacy for Bianca and her family as they navigate this difficult journey together.

‘While Jiggly concentrates on healing, we invite her friends, fans, and community to uplift her with messages of hope and love on her social media channels.

‘Bianca’s family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers.’

Jiggly was announced to be one of thirteen contestants in the fourth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race on November 13, 2011.

Appearing in the iconic series, she placed eighth overall, being eliminated in a lip sync by seventh placer Willam.

Since the show, Jiggly come out as a transgender woman, shed 50lbs, and got new teeth.

‘I’m going to be the shadiest one of the season, I can see it. No, no I am the shadiest, but I am not the villain,’ announced the 40-year-old Queens native aka Bianca Castro.

‘Definitely more glam than season four because I got the money now. She can afford nice things now. I don’t even need $100K [prize] I just need RuPaul to say, ‘Jiggly you are the winner. The whole shebang.”

In 2021, Jiggly was announced to be one of the 13 queens returning for RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars Season 6, but missed out on the crown and was eliminated in the second episode, placing twelfth overall.

The iconic queen is a main judge on Drag Race Philippines, which premiered in August 2022.