Remembering Jiggly Caliente: Impactful ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Star and Judge Dies at 44

Jiggly Caliente, known for her vibrant personality and humor on “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” passed away at the age of 44. Her family announced the news on Instagram, although they did not share the cause of death or specific details about her final moments.

Recently, Jiggly faced serious health challenges. She had been hospitalized due to a severe infection and underwent surgery that resulted in the loss of her right leg. Despite these struggles, Jiggly’s spirit remained strong. After her elimination from “Drag Race All Stars” in 2021, she told RuPaul, “This doesn’t break me… This is not the last of me.”

Jiggly first gained fame on the fourth season of "RuPaul’s Drag Race" in 2012. Her charisma, dance skills, and quick-witted interactions made her a fan favorite. One of her memorable moments was when she challenged a competitor about their makeup skills, leading to a classic catchphrase: “This is not ‘RuPaul’s Best Friend Race.’”

Born on November 29, 1980, in San Pedro, Philippines, Jiggly moved to the U.S. with her family in 1991. She first performed as a drag queen by choosing the name Jiggly Caliente, inspired by Jigglypuff from the “Pokémon” series. In 2016, Jiggly publicly came out as a transgender woman, advocating for equality and visibility for the trans community.

Her journey also led her to become a judge on the Philippines version of “Drag Race” in 2022, showcasing her talent on a larger platform. Additionally, she had a notable role in the FX series “Pose,” where she played Veronica Ferocity, a shopkeeper navigating the vibrant drag scene in 1980s New York.

Jiggly’s legacy lives on through her impact on both fans and aspiring performers. A testament to her influence, social media is flooded with tributes from fans celebrating her contributions to the drag community.

For those wanting to learn more about Jiggly’s journey in the drag world, you can visit this tribute article that highlights her achievements and impact.

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Caliente, Jiggly (1980-2025),Deaths (Obituaries),Drag (Performance),Transgender,Actors and Actresses,Television,Dancing,Charles, RuPaul,RuPaul’s Drag Race (TV Program)