**Beloved Drag Performer Jiggly Caliente Passes Away at 44**

**Jiggly Caliente, a celebrated performer from RuPaul's Drag Race and Pose, has died at 44 after a battle with health issues. Tributes pour in from the drag community as they honor her legacy.**

Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known to the world as Jiggly Caliente, has died at the age of 44, her family confirmed on social media. The Filipino-American drag artist gained prominence on the fourth season of RuPaul's Drag Race and later served as a judge on the Philippines edition of the show.

Her family released a heartfelt statement on Instagram, expressing their sorrow over her passing, which occurred on Sunday morning while she was surrounded by her close family and friends. They praised her "infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity," stating that she left behind a legacy of love, courage, and light.

"She touched countless lives through her artistry and activism," they continued, "and the joy she shared will remain forever." Tributes have flooded social media from fellow drag performers and fans alike, including Laganja Estranja, who described Caliente as a "kind, caring soul," and Baga Chipz, who noted her as "one of the kindest, sweetest souls I've ever met."

Cheryl The Queen expressed her unending love for Caliente, while Tia Kofi shared how much she admired Caliente's support and advice. Judge Michelle Visage reminisced about their special conversations, stating, "This world has lost an angel," encouraging Caliente to "soar high."

Born in the Philippines in 1980, Caliente moved to New York as a child, where she quickly captured the hearts of fans with her humor and memorable moments on Drag Race in 2012. She became known for a memorable exchange that led to the catchphrase, "this is not RuPaul's Best Friend Race."

In addition to her drag career, Caliente's acting gigs included appearances on popular sitcoms like Broad City and Search Party, as well as a significant role in the acclaimed drama Pose, which explored New York's LGBTQ ball culture during the late 20th century.

Publicly coming out as transgender in 2016, she later re-entered the Drag Race arena, competing in All Stars and judging the Philippines spin-off. Just days before her passing, her family reported she faced a serious health setback, resulting in the amputation of part of her leg.

Caliente's legacy as a performer and activist will endure as friends, family, and fans remember her vibrant spirit and lasting impact on the drag community.