Cover Jiggly was an advocate for queer rights (Photo: Getty Images)
Jiggly was an advocate for queer rights (Photo: Getty Images)
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Some queens leave the runway, and some leave a lasting impression. A true force of nature, Jiggly Caliente has always worn her heart on her sleeve
Bianca Castro-Arabejo, fondly called “Jiggly Caliente”, served us drama, humour, heart, and many iconic moments along the way. Just this week, the beloved RuPaul’s Drag Race star and judge passed away at 44.
Her family confirmed her death on Instagram, though they did not share the cause or location. In the days leading up to her passing, her family shared that she had recently suffered a health setback, which led to a hospitalisation due to a severe infection. She underwent surgery in which she lost most of her right leg. Despite these challenges, Jiggly’s incredible resilience and larger-than-life personality continued to inspire fans and fellow queens alike.
In this article, Tatler remembers some of Jiggly’s Drag Race moments.
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Leopard Print
Above Jiggly Caliente wears leopard print on stage
One of the most memorable moments of All Stars Six occurred during the fierce lip sync battle between Jiggly and Silky Nutmeg Ganache. Both rocking bold leopard print ensembles, they brought drama, sass, and pure comedy to the stage. As they read each other down in true Drag Race fashion, Jiggly delivered the iconic line, “Two fat bitches in leopard print,” leaving viewers in stitches.
Jiggly vs Lashauwn Beyond
Above Lashauwn Beyond and Jiggly Caliente’s stand off in the werkroom
When Jiggly faced off against Lashauwn Beyond in the werkroom during RuPaul’s Drag Race Season Four, it marked one of the most defining moments of her journey on the show. The queen’s approach was rooted in vulnerability and a genuine desire to be taken seriously.
See also: Loud and Proud: Drag Race PH's Precious Paula Nicole Reveals Her True Colours On Stage
A true blue ‘tita’ to RuPaul’s Drag Race PH queens
Above Jiggly genuinely cared for the queens of Drag Race Philippines
One of the most endearing aspects of Jiggly’s legacy was her role as ‘tita’ to the queens of RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines. While the Drag Race franchise is known for its competitive energy, Jiggly brought a refreshing sense of mentorship and compassion to her position as a judge on the Philippine spinoff.
‘Jiggly Caliente 2.0’, a drag queen’s glow up
Above Jiggly Caliente had a glow up and called it ‘Jiggly Caliente 2.0’
When Jiggly returned for All Stars Six, it was clear that she wasn’t just the same queen we had seen on the fourth season. This was Jiggly Caliente 2.0: a version of herself that had undergone a dramatic glow-up, both in terms of her drag aesthetic and her personal journey.
Her new look—sharper, more refined, and radiating self-assurance—was matched by an equally impressive attitude. Jiggly embraced her growth with open arms, showcasing how far she had come since her earlier days on the show.
More from Tatler: Born to Do Drag: A day in the life of Marina Summers
Her ‘En Vogue Rudemption’ lip sync
Above Jiggly’s ‘En Vogue Rudemption’ lip sync
If there’s one lip sync performance that cemented Jiggly as an iconic force in Drag Race herstory, it was undoubtedly her “En Vogue Rudemption” during All Stars Six. “I am amped up and ready to fight,” Jiggly said as she walked back on stage to show what she’s got for the brand new season.
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“May I call you Jiggly?”
Above A memorable exchange between Jiggly and RuPaul
In a simple yet unforgettable exchange, RuPaul asked Jiggly, “May I call you Jiggly?” Without missing a beat, Jiggly responded with her signature, “Yes, Mama!”
Apocalyptic runway walk
Above Jiggly Caliente‘s ‘Apocalypic’ look
Tin foil, a leg hanging from her waist, and feathers in her hair— “Apparently, hoarding is the new black,” quipped RuPaul.
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Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
