Jiggly Caliente is a beloved drag queen, transgender actress, and singer who captured hearts through RuPaul’s Drag Race.
In 2025, she faced a serious health battle that changed her life forever — the amputation of her right leg.
This article covers Jiggly’s inspiring journey, career highlights, personal identity, and her path to recovery.

Who is Jiggly Caliente?

Jiggly Caliente, born as Bianca Castro, is a Filipino-American performer.
She was born in Queens, New York, and raised in a proud Filipino immigrant family.
Jiggly always embraced her Filipino roots and often celebrates her heritage through her work.

Growing up, she struggled with bullying, body image issues, and identity challenges.
But she found strength in performance art, especially in drag culture.

Today, she is known as a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a powerful voice for the transgender community.

Rise to Fame: Drag Race and Beyond

Jiggly gained fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4 in 2012.
Her lively personality, humor, and emotional depth made her a fan favorite.

Even though she finished 8th, her impact was lasting.
She later competed on RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars Season 6 in 2021, showing her growth and transformation.

Some of her most famous Drag Race moments include:

• Her emotional lip-sync battles

• Candid discussions about body positivity

• Her open conversation about gender identity

Beyond Drag Race, Jiggly starred in Pose on FX Network.
She played Veronica Ferocity, a ballroom mother in the groundbreaking LGBTQ+ drama.

Music Career

In 2018, Jiggly launched her first album, T.H.O.T. Process.
The album featured catchy beats and collaborations with other drag artists.
Her music mixes pop, hip-hop, and strong self-empowerment messages.

Personal Identity and Transition

Jiggly Caliente proudly identifies as a transgender woman.
She has been open about her gender transition journey after her first Drag Race appearance.

Her decision to live authentically has inspired many fans around the world.
She often speaks about the challenges transgender people face, including access to healthcare and representation in media.

Inspiring Quote

“Transitioning saved my life. Living my truth gave me peace I never thought I deserved.” — Jiggly Caliente

2025 Health Update: Leg Amputation

In April 2025, Jiggly’s family revealed shocking news.
Due to a severe infection, most of her right leg had to be amputated.

The infection was aggressive and did not respond to treatments.
After weeks of hospitalization, doctors recommended amputation to save her life.

The news left fans heartbroken, but support quickly poured in from the Drag Race community, celebrities, and fans worldwide.

Her close friend Michelle Visage wrote:

“We love you so much, my sweet Jiggles. We are praying with all we’ve got.”

Understanding Leg Amputations

In the United States, over 150,000 lower-limb amputations occur each year.
Diabetes and infection-related complications are the top causes.
Sadly, amputation risks are much higher in communities of color, including Filipino-Americans.

Doctors explain that infections, if not treated early, can cause tissue death.
In such cases, removing the infected limb is the only option to prevent life-threatening conditions like sepsis.

Expert Opinion

“When infections spread unchecked, amputation becomes a life-saving measure. It is not failure; it is courage.” — Dr. Dean Schillinger, UCSF

Life After Amputation: What’s Next for Jiggly?

Recovering from a leg amputation is both physically and emotionally challenging.
Jiggly will likely undergo:

• Physical therapy to rebuild strength

• Fitting for a prosthetic leg

• Emotional healing to adjust to her new reality

However, knowing Jiggly’s fierce spirit, fans believe she will return stronger than ever.
She has always turned pain into power.

Her family asked for privacy during her healing journey but confirmed that she remains positive and determined.

Net Worth and Achievements

As of early 2025, Jiggly Caliente’s estimated net worth is around $500,000.
Her income sources include:

• Television appearances

• Music sales

• Brand endorsements

• Guest performances at Pride events

She also earns from motivational speaking, sharing her story at LGBTQ+ conferences and health awareness campaigns.

Awards and Recognition

• Honored by GLAAD for her role in LGBTQ+ representation

• Featured in Out Magazine’s 100 Most Influential LGBTQ+ People

• Celebrated as a community leader in Filipino-American cultural events

FAQs

Q: What happened to Jiggly Caliente’s leg?
A: She had to undergo a right leg amputation due to a severe infection in April 2025.

Q: Is Jiggly Caliente transgender?
A: Yes, she proudly identifies as a transgender woman.

Q: What TV shows has Jiggly Caliente been part of?
A: RuPaul’s Drag Race, All Stars 6, and Pose on FX.

Q: What is Jiggly Caliente’s real name?
A: Her birth name is Bianca Castro.

Q: What is Jiggly Caliente’s net worth in 2025?
A: It is estimated to be around $500,000.

Q: Will Jiggly Caliente continue performing after the amputation?
A: While she is focusing on recovery now, her strong spirit hints at a possible return to the stage in the future.

Final Thoughts

Jiggly Caliente has shown time and time again that she is a fighter.
Her leg amputation marks just another chapter in her journey of resilience and inspiration.

She continues to stand as a beacon of hope, reminding us all that beauty, strength, and courage come in many forms.

Her story is not one of loss — it is one of triumph, love, and an unbreakable spirit.