RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Bianca Castro, known by her drag name Jiggly Caliente, was hospitalized following a “severe infection” and had one of her legs amputated.
As a result of her health, Castro will also not be appearing on the fourth season of Drag Race Philippines, where she had been a judge since the first season.
“Over the last month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback. Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg,” read the statement from Castro’s family shared on Instagram. “Because of these circumstances, Bianca will not be appearing in the upcoming season of RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines, nor will she be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future. Her recovery will be extensive.”
Castro’s family asked for privacy for the drag queen and them “as they navigate this difficult journey together. While Jiggly concentrates on healing, we invite her friends, fans, and community to uplift her
with messages of hope and love on her social media channels.”
Jiggly Caliente first appeared on RuPaul’s Drag Race in Season 4, where she placed in fourth place. The drag queen would participate in RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 6, where she was the second one eliminated.
In 2022, Jiggly Caliente joined Drag Race Philippines as a main judge alongside Paolo Ballesteros, KaladKaren, BJ Pascual, Jon Santos, and Rajo Laurel. Castro also had a recurring role in the FX series Pose playing the role of Veronica Ferocity.
Following the family’s statement, the Drag Race community shared their messages of support.
RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage said, “We love you so much my sweet jiggles and we are praying with all we’ve got.”
Nina Bonina Brown: “We dnt talk all the time And there’s nothing i can say to ease your pain your anxiety’s your hurt your sorrow. But i just had to message regardless and say im sorry this has happened to u. Life is so unfair, its so random, yes it could be worse thank god you’re still here but that doesn’t make a loss of most of a loss of a limb any better, something thats been apart of u since birth. But hopefully overtime, time will heal your physical and mental wounds.”
Jujubee: “I love you so much. Can’t wait to see you again.”
Bob the Drag Queen: “Jiggly I love you so much. You always keep it so real. A true diva. Heal up sis.”
Bianca del Rio: “Sending all the love , Jiggles.”
Carson Kressley: “Sending so much love your way – keeping you close to our hearts.”
Read the statement below.
