12 hours ago
'Drag Race' Judge Jiggly Caliente Leaves Philippines Edition of Show after Tragic Loss of Her Leg
Kilian Melloy READ TIME: 1 MIN.
"RuPaul's Drag Race" and "Pose" star and judge of "Drag Race Philippines" judge Jiggly Caliente is taking some time out of the public eye to recover after losing a leg to an infection, her family says.
"In a social media statement shared early Thursday [April 24], Jiggly's family – while using her real name, Bianca Castro – told fans that 'due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized' and endured 'the loss of most of her right leg' as a result," Entertainment Weekly reported.
Saying that the drag icon's "recovery will be extensive," Caliente's family added that she "will not be appearing in the upcoming season of 'Drag Race Philippines,' nor will she be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future."
"Bianca's family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers," the message concluded.
"After becoming a fan-favorite queen over the years thanks to several memorable looks and quotes on 'Drag Race' season 4 (including her legendary 'baked potato' postapocalyptic couture outfit), Jiggly, who came out as trans in 2016, additionally landed a guest spot in a 2018 'Saturday Night Live' sketch," EW recalled.
Caliente also competed on "Drag Race All Stars" Season 6. Her acting career included the recurring role of Veronica Ferocity on "Pose." She also co-hosted "Translation," a talk show featuring an all-transgender ensemble.
"In 2022, Jiggly Caliente joined 'Drag Race Philippines' as a main judge alongside Paolo Ballesteros, KaladKaren, BJ Pascual, Jon Santos, and Rajo Laurel," Deadline noted. She was featured as a judge on all three seasons so far.
Kilian Melloy serves as EDGE Media Network's Associate Arts Editor and Staff Contributor. His professional memberships include the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association, the Boston Online Film Critics Association, The Gay and Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association, and the Boston Theater Critics Association's Elliot Norton Awards Committee.
