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Philippines Jiggly Caliente was a beloved Filipino-American transgender drag performer, singer, and television personality, leaving a lasting legacy through her artistry and advocacy.
Jiggly Caliente rose to prominence as a contestant on the fourth season of RuPaul's Drag Race and later returned for RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars season 6. She also became a judge on Drag Race Philippines.
Jiggly Caliente partnered with Drag Queen Merch to create and sell official merchandise, empowering drag artists and their community.
Jiggly Caliente maintained an active presence on Instagram, sharing personal updates and connecting with her fanbase, including highlights from her role as a judge on Drag Race Philippines.
Jiggly Caliente was one of thirty drag queens featured in Miley Cyrus's 2015 VMA performance.
Jiggly Caliente performed as a background dancer for Christina Aguilera at Opening Ceremony's Spring 2019 runway show.
Jiggly Caliente appeared on Saturday Night Live with fellow Drag Race contestant Peppermint for the Garmin GP-Yasss sketch.
Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known professionally as Jiggly Caliente, was born on November 29, 1980, in San Pedro, Laguna, Philippines. She immigrated to the United States in 1991 with her mother and brother, growing up in Sunnyside, Queens, New York. Initially interested in becoming a cartoonist, she attended the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) before her career path shifted towards entertainment.
Caliente established her drag persona in 2004 or 2005. Her career gained significant momentum after she competed on the fourth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012, where she placed eighth. This exposure launched her into further television appearances and music releases. She released her debut album, “T.H.O.T. Process,” in 2018, which featured collaborations with other prominent Drag Race alumni. In addition to music, Caliente showcased her acting skills in the drama series “Pose” from 2018 to 2021, and served as a judge on “Drag Race Philippines” from 2022 to 2024.
Jiggly Caliente publicly came out as transgender in 2016, becoming an outspoken advocate for trans rights. Her contributions extended beyond entertainment, impacting the LGBTQ+ community through her honesty and visibility. She was inducted into the National LGBTQ Wall of Honor at New York City’s Stonewall Inn in June 2025, posthumously recognized for her advocacy. Caliente passed away on April 27, 2025, at the age of 44, in New York City, due to a severe infection.
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