RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Jiggly Caliente has undergone a life-altering surgery following a major health emergency.
The 44-year-old star, whose real name is Bianca Castro, had most of her right leg amputated after being hospitalised with a "severe infection", her family confirmed in a statement shared to social media.
“The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback,” the message began.
“Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalised and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg.”
Jiggly, who is also a judge on Drag Race Philippines and appeared in the FX series Pose, will be stepping back from public life for the time being, her family confirmed.
“She will not be appearing on the upcoming season, nor will she be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future,” her family added. “Her recovery will be extensive.”
They continued: “At this time, we kindly ask for privacy for Bianca and her family 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's family and drag house also expressed their gratitude for the "continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers."
Since the announcement, members of the drag community and fans have flooded her feed with love and well-wishes.
Drag Race star Marina Summers commented: “Sending all love to you and your family! We are here for youuu!” while Jujubee added: “I love you so much. Can’t wait to see you again”.
Manila Luzon wrote: “Praying for you, sister.”
Jiggly first rose to fame in 2012, placing eighth on Season 4 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, and returned for All Stars Season 6 in 2021.
She came out publicly as trans in 2016 and has since been vocal about embracing her identity and body.
Speaking to Xtra in 2015, Jiggly reflected on an earlier hospitalisation that led to lifestyle changes.
“I had a health scare two years ago and I ended up in the hospital, so ever since then my eating has changed,” she said. “Now I love mashed potatoes, but I don’t necessarily eat them with fried chicken all the time anymore, you know?”
She added: “It came to a point where I said, 'I’m not the skinny, gorgeous girl. I’m the big gorgeous girl. Get it!' There’s a role for everybody and my role is the big, sexy girl.”
