Jiggly Caliente, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestant, dead at 44

CNN - Apr 27th, 2025

Jiggly Caliente, known offstage as Bianca Castro-Arabejo, has passed away at the age of 44. A celebrated performer and actress, she gained fame as a contestant on 'RuPaul’s Drag Race.' Her family announced her death, revealing she was surrounded by loved ones. Known for her infectious energy and authenticity, she touched many lives through her artistry and activism. Prior to her death, Castro-Arabejo suffered a serious health setback, resulting in the amputation of her right leg due to a severe infection. Her unexpected passing has left a significant void in the entertainment and advocacy communities.

Beyond her reality TV fame, Castro-Arabejo made strides in acting, securing a role in the acclaimed FX series 'Pose.' She was a trailblazer for trans representation, especially in the Filipino community, and was a judge on 'RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines.' Her legacy as an artist and activist remains impactful, inspiring countless fans and the LGBTQ+ community. Her pride in her Filipino heritage and desire to inspire others were evident throughout her career, leaving an indelible mark on both entertainment and advocacy landscapes.

Lgbtq+ Representation Transgender Advocacy Jiggly Caliente Bianca Castro Arabejo Ru Paul’s Drag Race Pose Filipino Heritage

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RATING

8.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a well-rounded and respectful tribute to Jiggly Caliente, accurately reflecting her contributions to entertainment and LGBTQ+ advocacy. It is timely and engages with public interest themes, though it could benefit from more detailed source verification and inclusion of a wider range of perspectives. Overall, the story is clear, engaging, and informative, offering a comprehensive look at a beloved public figure's life and legacy.

Accuracy

The article is largely accurate, with key details verified by multiple sources. The death of Jiggly Caliente, her participation in 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' and her role in 'Pose' are all confirmed by external sources. The information about her health issues, including the leg amputation, is consistent with family statements. However, some details, like the exact time of death and the specific source of a 2024 interview, are not corroborated by other sources, which slightly affects the score.

Balance

The article presents a balanced view of Jiggly Caliente’s life, highlighting her contributions to entertainment and advocacy. It includes perspectives from her family, her professional colleagues, and her own past interviews. However, it does not include any potential criticisms or controversies that might have been associated with her career, which could provide a more rounded view.

Clarity

The article is clearly written, with a logical flow that makes it easy to follow. It effectively balances personal anecdotes with factual reporting, providing a comprehensive view of Jiggly Caliente's life and career. The language is neutral and respectful, which aids in the reader's understanding.

Source quality

The article relies on credible sources such as family statements and official social media posts. It also references well-known publications like Entertainment Weekly. However, the reliance on social media for some information could introduce potential bias or inaccuracies if not corroborated by more traditional news sources.

Transparency

The article is transparent in its use of sources, frequently mentioning that information is based on family statements and social media posts. However, it lacks detailed disclosure about how information was verified, particularly regarding the 2024 interview and specific health details, which impacts the transparency score.