Jiggly Caliente, trailblazing drag icon and Pose star, dies at 44.
The entertainment world is reeling from the sudden loss of Jiggly Caliente, a beloved drag performer and star of FX’s Pose, who passed away at 44 due to complications from a severe infection.
Her family told BBC that a partial amputation of his leg was performed on Thursday to halt the disease, but he tragically died shortly afterwards. Known for her vibrant energy and groundbreaking contributions to drag and television, Caliente leaves behind a legacy that touched countless lives.
Caliente burst onto the scene in 2012 as a contestant on Season 4 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, where her charisma and talent won over fans. She returned for All Stars 6 and later served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines for three seasons, showcasing her evolution as an artist and mentor.
But it was her role on Pose, Ryan Murphy’s acclaimed drama about New York’s ballroom culture, that cemented her as a cultural force. Playing a key role in the series, she brought authenticity and depth to a show celebrated for its portrayal of marginalized voices.
In 2016, Caliente came out as transgender, a moment that amplified her impact beyond entertainment. She became a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using her platform to promote visibility and acceptance.
Born in the Philippines and raised in the U.S., she navigated a drag world that wasn’t always inclusive, turning challenges into opportunities to shine. Her journey resonated deeply, making her a role model for aspiring performers and activists alike.
The news of her passing has left the drag and entertainment communities in shock. Fellow Drag Race star Cheryl The Queen posted a heartfelt message online: “We will love you forever and always Jiggly.”
The sentiment echoes across social media, where tributes from peers and fans highlight her warmth and influence. Sources say she fought the infection fiercely in her final days, but the rapid deterioration overwhelmed even the best efforts of her medical team.
While memorial plans remain unclear given the freshness of the loss, the community is already rallying to celebrate her life in a way she’d have loved—boldly and unapologetically.
Caliente’s career was a testament to her resilience. On Drag Race, she dazzled with lip-syncs and DIY couture, proving talent could trump any budget. Her Pose role brought ballroom culture to mainstream audiences, offering a window into a world she knew intimately.
As an advocate, she stood tall during a time when trans visibility was scarce, pushing for change with every step. Her death feels especially poignant now, as drag faces bans and anti-LGBTQ+ laws threaten progress. She was a voice for the voiceless, and her absence leaves a void.
The tributes will come—on stages, screens, and in hearts—but for now, the grief is raw. Jiggly Caliente lived authentically, loved fiercely, and inspired endlessly. Her work on Drag Race, Pose, and beyond will continue to light the way for those she uplifted. Rest in power, Jiggly—a star whose brilliance will never fade.
Source BBC
