Gayety

Category: TV

Stay updated with the latest in LGBTQ+ entertainment through Gayety’s comprehensive coverage of television news and features.

  • Zane Phillips Was Starstruck at First by Nathan Lane While Shooting ‘Mid-Century Modern’ (Exclusive)

    Zane Phillips Was Starstruck at First by Nathan Lane While Shooting ‘Mid-Century Modern’ (Exclusive)

    Actor Zane Phillips reflected on his time as Mason in Hulu’s new sitcom Mid-Century Modern  and even went on to say how he was at first starstruck by his fellow cast mates.

    The series, created by Max Mutchnick and David Kohan—the duo behind Will & Grace—draws inspiration from The Golden Girls, offering a fresh perspective on aging and friendship within the LGBTQ+ community. ​

    A Star-Studded Ensemble

    Set in Palm Springs, Mid-Century Modern follows three gay men—Bunny (Nathan Lane), Jerry (Matt Bomer), and Arthur (Nathan Lee Graham)—who, after an unexpected death, decide to spend their golden years living together. They share a home with Bunny’s mother, Sybil (Linda Lavin), forming a chosen family that navigates the ups and downs of life, love, and friendship. ​

    Sybil helps Arthur get a job as a personal shopper, but his condescending boss reminds Arthur he’s no longer in fashion, he’s in sales. At a casino, Jerry tries to get tickets to a Donny Osmond concert, while Bunny negotiates with a pit boss when he feels he lost money unfairly. (Disney/Chris Haston)

    Phillips’ character, Mason, appears in the fifth episode, “Fire Island,” where he meets Jerry during a trip to Fire Island. Their interaction sparks a connection that leads to a deeper exploration of Jerry’s past and present relationships. The episode delves into themes of identity, love, and the complexities of personal history.

     

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    A post shared by Zane Phillips (@zanethan)

    ​

    A Memorable First Day on Set

    Speaking to Gayety at the launch of the Tryst Hotel in Puerto Vallarta, Phillips recalls his first day on set, which coincided with election day. He was particularly moved by Linda Lavin’s impromptu piano performance of a song she would later sing in the series. “It was probably the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen in my life,” Phillips shared. The cast and crew were deeply touched by her performance, which added a poignant moment to the filming day.

    Bunny asks Jerry and Arthur to let Mindy join their pickleball team. Meanwhile, Sybil reconnects with an old friend.
    Bunny asks Jerry and Arthur to let Mindy join their pickleball team. Meanwhile, Sybil reconnects with an old friend. (Disney/Chris Haston)

    ​Learning from Legends

    Working alongside seasoned actors like Nathan Lane and Linda Lavin was both inspiring and humbling for Phillips and one where he was a bit start struck.

    “It’s really wacky,” the star went to say. “I was on set and I was looking at Nathan Lane and I was like, “You’re Timon.” It’s probably the first movie I’ve ever seen. And so just being in a room with these legends and they were all so kind and so funny.”

    He described the experience as a “master class,” emphasizing the opportunity to learn from their expertise and generosity. “I always want to be surrounded by people who I can learn from and who are kind enough to impart their knowledge and their skills with me,” he said.

    Sybil helps Arthur get a job as a personal shopper, but his condescending boss reminds Arthur he’s no longer in fashion, he’s in sales. At a casino, Jerry tries to get tickets to a Donny Osmond concert, while Bunny negotiates with a pit boss when he feels he lost money unfairly.
    Sybil helps Arthur get a job as a personal shopper, but his condescending boss reminds Arthur he’s no longer in fashion, he’s in sales. At a casino, Jerry tries to get tickets to a Donny Osmond concert, while Bunny negotiates with a pit boss when he feels he lost money unfairly. (Disney/Chris Haston)

    ​Balancing Gratitude and Professionalism

    Despite the star-studded cast, Phillips maintains a grounded perspective on his role. He acknowledges the importance of both luck and hard work in achieving success. “You have to start telling yourself it wasn’t just luck that I’m in this room,” he explained. By focusing on gratitude and professionalism, Phillips ensures that he remains focused on his craft and the opportunities before him.​

    Personal Reflections

    Beyond his professional achievements, Phillips has been reflecting on the significance of family and personal connections. He expressed deep appreciation for his mother and husband, especially during challenging times. “That’s what I do it for, ultimately. It’s my family,” he said, highlighting the importance of support systems in both personal and professional life.​​

  • Full Trailer Drops for Benito Skinner’s New College Comedy ‘Overcompensating’ on Prime Video

    Full Trailer Drops for Benito Skinner’s New College Comedy ‘Overcompensating’ on Prime Video

    Get ready to relive the awkward, vodka-soaked chaos of college life—because Benito Skinner, best known online as Benny Drama, is suiting up for a hilarious return to campus in his new comedy series Overcompensating.

    The upcoming series, produced by A24, Strong Baby, and Amazon MGM Studios, premieres May 15 on Prime Video and promises a nostalgic, cringe-filled trip through the highs and lows of freshman year. Skinner stars as Benny, a closeted former high school football star and homecoming king, who’s just trying to figure out who he is—while surviving the social jungle that is college.

    According to a release from Amazon, Overcompensating is “a college-set ensemble comedy about the wild, chaotic journey of Benny… as he becomes fast friends with Carmen (Wally Baram), a high school outsider on a mission to fit in at all costs.” Helping (or maybe hindering) their journey are Benny’s no-nonsense older sister, played by Mary Beth Barone, and her effortlessly cool, campus-legend boyfriend (Adam DiMarco).

    Expect flavored vodka, fake IDs, regrettable hookups, and a cappella groups that no one asked for—all part of what makes Overcompensating equal parts heartwarming and hilariously unhinged.

    The show’s trailer teases a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud romp full of classic college tropes: think frat parties, secret societies, chaotic dorm life, and more than one identity crisis. Anyone who’s ever tried to reinvent themselves—or just survive freshman orientation—will find something to relate to.

    And if the premise wasn’t enticing enough, the series is stacked with a star-studded roster of guest appearances. Comedy duo Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers (Las Culturistas) appear as an outrageously dramatic couple, Charli XCX plays herself (naturally), and Lukas Gage, James Van Der Beek, and even Megan Fox (well, a poster of her) make appearances.

    For Skinner, who rose to fame creating viral characters online, Overcompensating marks a new chapter—one that brings his signature humor to a broader, binge-worthy platform. The series also digs into deeper themes of identity, friendship, and the many ways people try (and fail) to fit in.

    Overcompensating premieres exclusively on Prime Video on May 15. Until then, check out the official trailer and brace yourself for some major secondhand embarrassment—in the best way possible.

  • Bowen Yang Calls VP JD Vance a ‘Pope Killer’ During Hilarious ‘View’ Appearance

    Bowen Yang Calls VP JD Vance a ‘Pope Killer’ During Hilarious ‘View’ Appearance

    Saturday Night Live star Bowen Yang turned daytime television into a laugh-fest on Thursday with an eyebrow-raising — and entirely comedic — new nickname for Vice President JD Vance: “the pope killer.”

    Yang appeared on The View to promote his new romantic comedy The Wedding Banquet, but it was his commentary on politics and SNL impressions that sent the hosts into hysterics.

    While chatting about his role on the NBC sketch series — where he famously plays characters like the Titanic’s Iceberg and Vice President Vance — Yang dropped the remark that had the studio in stitches. Referencing Vance’s highly publicized last-minute meeting with Pope Francis just hours before the pontiff’s death on Easter Monday, Yang quipped, “The guy’s a pope killer, okay?”

    The comment instantly broke the panel. Whoopi Goldberg turned away from the camera in laughter, declaring, “Someone had to say it!” Co-host Sara Haines jumped in with, “There’s our new headline!” Meanwhile, Joy Behar, ever the voice of comic reason, quickly clarified, “He doesn’t mean it literally — he’s talking spiritually.”

    Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at age 88, just one day after briefly meeting with Vance in Vatican City. Vance later told The Hill, “Obviously, when I saw him, I didn’t know that he had less than 24 hours still on this Earth… I think it was a great blessing.”

    Yang’s zinger may have been exaggerated satire, but it certainly landed with the audience — and the hosts.

    Earlier in the segment, Yang spoke about preparing to play Vance on SNL, confessing, “I thought there would be better people to embody him.” To get it right, Yang said he worked with an accent coach to find a blend “between Ohio and Appalachia.” One host responded, “You nailed it,” to which Yang grinned and responded with the now-viral “pope killer” line.

    Of course, Yang was primarily on The View to talk about his latest film The Wedding Banquet, a queer romantic comedy directed by Andrew Ahn. Yang stars as a commitment-phobic man caught in a tangled web of love and immigration schemes, opposite Han Gi-chan, Kelly Marie Tran, and Lily Gladstone. The film premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, earning rave reviews. Out Magazine praised it as director Ahn’s “career peak” and said, “No other movie moved me or made me laugh more.”

  • JoJo Siwa and Chris Hughes Address CBB Controversy, Breakup, and ‘Soulmate’ Bond in First Post-Show Interview

    JoJo Siwa and Chris Hughes Address CBB Controversy, Breakup, and ‘Soulmate’ Bond in First Post-Show Interview

    JoJo Siwa and Chris Hughes made their first joint appearance following their stint on Celebrity Big Brother, sitting down for a candid interview on ITV’s This Morning to discuss their connection in the house — and the breakup that followed.

    The pop star and former Love Island contestant became a headline-making duo during the latest season of Celebrity Big Brother, with fans — and critics — closely following their interactions. The pair were often seen hugging, cuddling, and sharing kisses throughout the show, sparking speculation about the nature of their relationship.

    But controversy soon followed due to the pair’s 11-year age gap — Hughes is 32, Siwa is 21 — and the fact that Siwa was still in a relationship with Australian influencer Kath Ebbs at the time.

    During the interview with hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard on Monday, Siwa confirmed that she ended her relationship with Ebbs at the show’s wrap party on Friday, April 25 — a revelation that Ebbs had previously shared via social media.

    “It wasn’t my plan,” Siwa said when asked about the highly public breakup. “I was told they weren’t going to attend the wrap party, and then they arrived about an hour in. They straight up asked me if I was happy, and I said no. One thing led to another, and that conversation happened there.”

    Ebbs had earlier expressed on Instagram that they were left “shocked” and “numb,” accusing Siwa of expressing love privately while showing conflicting behavior on-screen. Despite feeling “humiliated” by the timing of the breakup, Ebbs said they had initially hoped to work through the issues.

    Reflecting on her time in the house, Siwa shared that the experience forced her to confront personal truths. “Day one, fun. Day two, fun. But by day three, I was sitting with myself and realized I had been OK with things I shouldn’t have been,” she said. “When I got out, I knew I had to make changes in my life.”

    Though their chemistry on the show raised questions, both Siwa and Hughes emphasized that their bond remains platonic — but deeply meaningful.

    Jojo Siwa and Chris Hughes on 'Celebrity Big Brother UK.' Photo: ITV
    JoJo Siwa and Chris Hughes on ‘Celebrity Big Brother UK.’ Photo: ITV

    “It’s just a really strong friendship,” Hughes told the hosts. “You can have a soulmate friendship. It’s not romantic, but it’s special. Going through an experience like that with someone… was beautiful.”

    When asked if their relationship could ever turn romantic, Siwa responded with a smile: “Whatever life does, life will do.”

    As of now, both stars say they are focused on personal growth and grateful for the bond they formed in the house — regardless of public speculation.

  • ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Finalist Lexi Love Announces Break from Drag to Focus on Well-Being

    ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Finalist Lexi Love Announces Break from Drag to Focus on Well-Being

    Just 10 days after the grand finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17, fan-favorite finalist Lexi Love has announced she is stepping away from drag indefinitely to prioritize her mental, physical and emotional health.

    Love, a 33-year-old trans woman and Louisville native, made the announcement via Instagram on Sunday, April 27. In a heartfelt post, she cited the need to “transform [her] relationship with [her] inner saboteur” and expressed gratitude to her supporters.

    “I’m taking a step back to nurture my mental, physical, and emotional well-being,” Love wrote. “It’s time to understand [my inner saboteur], disarm it, and step fully into my strength.”

    Love also thanked fans for their support and promised a future return.

     

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    A post shared by Lexi Love (@mslexilove)

    “When I return, I’ll be ready to take on the world — bigger, better, and stronger than ever,” she said. “And to those who doubted me — thank you for reminding me that resilience is a choice, and I choose to rise.”

    The post was accompanied by hashtags including #ILexiLoveYou, #StrongerThanEver, and #WatchMeRise.

    Love quickly became a standout contestant on Drag Race Season 17. She entered the competition as a full-time performer at Play Dance Bar in Louisville, where she built a devoted following. In the second episode of the season premiere, she performed a roller-skating number to her original track “She’s Giving,” drawing praise from judges, fellow contestants and fans alike.

    She ultimately reached the top four of the competition and delivered a powerful solo number to her original song “Classic” during the finale.

    Love’s vulnerability and authenticity on screen resonated with viewers throughout the season. Despite early struggles with self-doubt, she earned two challenge wins and was never in the bottom two. Her breakthrough came during the season’s stand-up comedy challenge in episode 12, where she secured her second win and a spot in the finale.

    While Love’s decision to step away has surprised some fans, the response to her announcement has been overwhelmingly supportive. Many have commended her for prioritizing her health and sharing her journey openly.

    Though no timeline has been given for her return, Love’s message made clear that this is not the end of her drag career.

    Fans can continue to show their support by following her on social media (@mslexilove) and purchasing merchandise through MyBestJudy.

  • Jiggly Caliente, ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and ‘Pose’ Star, Dies at 44

    Jiggly Caliente, ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and ‘Pose’ Star, Dies at 44

    Jiggly Caliente, a beloved figure in the drag and entertainment communities, has passed away at the age of 44. Born Bianca Castro-Arabejo on November 29, 1980, in San Pedro, Laguna, Philippines, Caliente gained prominence as a contestant on Season 4 of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012. She later returned for All Stars Season 6 in 2021 and served as a judge on Drag Race Philippines from 2022 onwards. 

    Caliente’s family confirmed her passing on April 27, 2025, following complications from a severe infection that led to the amputation of her right leg just days earlier . Known for her vibrant personality, authenticity, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, she also had a recurring role as Veronica Ferocity on the FX series Pose and appeared on shows like Saturday Night Live and Search Party .​

    Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow drag performers, and colleagues, reflecting on her humor, impact, and friendship. The official Drag Race Instagram, production company World of Wonder, and stars like Michelle Visage, Bianca Del Rio, and Jujubee expressed profound sorrow at her passing . Caliente’s legacy as a performer, activist, and trailblazer continues through the lives she touched and the space she helped create for marginalized voices.

  • UK’s ‘Peppa Pig’ Gender Reveal Really Got Everyone Up in Arms Online

    UK’s ‘Peppa Pig’ Gender Reveal Really Got Everyone Up in Arms Online

    A recent gender reveal event for a fictional character in the children’s television series Peppa Pig has ignited widespread controversy across the United Kingdom, highlighting deepening societal divisions. The event, held on April 25 at Battersea Power Station in London, featured a light display indicating the gender of Peppa Pig’s new sibling. The spectacle, intended as a playful promotion by Hasbro International, quickly became a flashpoint for debates on gender identity and political correctness.​

    The Event and Its Aftermath

    The gender reveal, broadcasted on Good Morning Britain, showcased the iconic Battersea chimneys illuminated in either pink or blue, symbolizing the unborn piglet’s gender. The announcement was met with immediate backlash from various social media users, many of whom criticized the use of the term “gender” in the context of a children’s show. Comments ranged from sarcastic remarks about non-binary identities to complaints about the perceived political correctness of the event.

    ​

    This incident follows a recent UK Supreme Court ruling that defined “woman” and “sex” based on biological characteristics, a decision that has been met with criticism from transgender and non-binary communities. The timing of the Peppa Pig event, coinciding with this ruling, has intensified debates over gender identity and representation in media.​

    The Broader Context

    The controversy surrounding the Peppa Pig gender reveal is part of a larger discourse on gender identity and expression in the UK. Public figures and institutions have increasingly been scrutinized for their handling of gender-related issues, with some advocating for more inclusive language and others pushing back against what they perceive as excessive political correctness.​

    The UK’s political climate has further complicated these discussions. Recent legislative actions and court decisions have sparked debates about the rights of transgender and non-binary individuals, with some arguing that current laws inadequately protect these communities. The Peppa Pig incident serves as a microcosm of these broader societal tensions, reflecting the challenges of balancing inclusivity with traditional values.​

    The Role of Media and Public Figures

    Media outlets and public figures have played significant roles in shaping the narrative around gender identity in the UK. The coverage of the Peppa Pig gender reveal, along with the subsequent public reactions, underscores the media’s influence in framing discussions on gender. While some media sources have criticized the backlash as overblown, others have highlighted the concerns raised by various communities.​

    Public figures, including politicians and activists, have also weighed in on the issue. Some have defended the Peppa Pig event as a harmless promotional activity, while others have condemned it as an example of unnecessary political correctness. These differing viewpoints illustrate the polarized nature of current debates on gender identity in the UK.​

    The Peppa Pig gender reveal incident has sparked a renewed conversation about gender identity and representation in the UK. As society continues to grapple with these issues, it is essential to foster open and respectful dialogue that considers the diverse perspectives of all individuals. While the controversy may have been triggered by a children’s television event, it serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding gender identity and the importance of inclusive practices in all sectors of society.​

    In the coming weeks, it will be important to monitor how this issue evolves and whether it leads to meaningful changes in policy and public perception regarding gender identity in the UK. The Peppa Pig gender reveal, though seemingly trivial, has highlighted significant societal divisions that warrant thoughtful consideration and action.

  • Mark Indelicato Shines in ‘Hacks’ Season 4 with Poppers, WeHo, and Work-Life Woes in the Mix

    Mark Indelicato Shines in ‘Hacks’ Season 4 with Poppers, WeHo, and Work-Life Woes in the Mix

    Things get unexpectedly personal—and hilariously unhinged—in the latest episode of Hacks as Jean Smart’s Deborah Vance finds herself abandoned on premiere night and turns to a very familiar face: her longtime assistant, Damien, played by Mark Indelicato.

    In Season 4, Episode 4, titled “I Love LA,” Deborah’s big debut as a late-night host is off to a rough start. Her staff is too exhausted to celebrate, her musical guest Randy Newman is a no-show, and the network stands her up at dinner. Left with a fully booked reservation and an empty chair, Deborah dials the one person she knows will answer: Damien.

     

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    A post shared by Mark Indelicato (@markindelicato)


    What follows is an unexpectedly heartfelt—and laugh-out-loud—episode that finally gives Indelicato the spotlight. While Damien has been a key background player since Hacks began, this episode cracks open his world. Over a slightly awkward dinner and a wild night out in West Hollywood, viewers get a peek at Damien’s vulnerability, his thirst for approval, and his conflicted relationship with LA gay culture.

    “I was very jazzed that no one really knew about Damien’s personal life,” Indelicato told Queerty in a recent interview. “I kind of liked him being this enigma—this workhorse. And then in Episode 4, we get to see him wiggling!”

    And wiggle he does. Damien drags Deborah to a silent disco-style gay club in WeHo, surrounded by shirtless men, flashing lights, and a very accidental poppers moment. (Yes, that kind of poppers.) It’s peak Hacks chaos—absurd, poignant, and somehow deeply relatable.

     

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    A post shared by Mark Indelicato (@markindelicato)

    Filming the scene was just as surreal as it sounds. “It’s so weird to shoot those because they’re like, ‘Okay, dance!’ and there’s no music,” Indelicato said. “Thank God I had the great Jean Smart just wiggling beside me.” He also couldn’t help but recognize some of the background extras. “They were like, ‘You’re going to dance with this guy,’ and I was like, ‘I’ve seen too much of you…’” he joked, referencing a few ahem familiar faces from the adult film world.

    The real heart of the episode, though, is the dinner scene between Damien and Deborah—a rare moment where the two get to interact without any distractions. For Indelicato, it was actually his first scene filmed this season, which helped him tap into Damien’s anxiety.

    “I was nervous! When you go on hiatus and come back, you’re like, ‘Do I remember how to act?’” he said. “But Jean is such an easy scene partner. She plays with you, sets you up for every laugh—it’s such a gift.”

    Later in the episode, Damien spills his thoughts about trying to fit into LA’s image-obsessed gay scene. “There is definitely an industry standard of what a desirable archetype is in Los Angeles cis-gay culture,” Indelicato shared. “I’m just really happy that I don’t have to subscribe to it anymore.” Cue a flash of his engagement ring: “Bling, bling, bling!”

    And yes, the infamous poppers moment—Deborah sniffing them mid-dance floor—is already a standout in the show’s legacy of chaotic brilliance. “If you told me a few years ago that Jean Smart would be in a go-go cage sniffing poppers, I would’ve said you’re insane,” Indelicato said. “And yet, here we are.”

    In a recent interview, Smart herself leaned into the absurdity. Asked what she’s learned from the queer community, she answered simply: “Poppers.”

    Fans have already declared the episode a standout, and Indelicato’s performance is earning plenty of praise for adding depth and nuance to a character often relegated to comic relief.

    Hacks Season 4 is currently streaming on Max, with new episodes dropping every Thursday.

  • Lydia B. Kollins Dives Into ‘Drag Race All Stars 10’ Just A Week After Season 17: “What Do I Have to Lose?”

    Lydia B. Kollins Dives Into ‘Drag Race All Stars 10’ Just A Week After Season 17: “What Do I Have to Lose?”

    Lydia B. Kollins barely had time to unpack her wigs from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 17 before being whisked back into the Werk Room for another round of fierce competition. The fan-favorite queen has confirmed she joined the massive cast of All Stars 10 just weeks after wrapping up her debut season.

    In an interview with The Playlist, Kollins revealed that she had about five days—yes, days—to prepare for her second Drag Race run. “I had gotten back from Season 17 filming, and it was like three weeks later they called [with the All Stars 10 invite],” she said. “And I had about five days to a week to sort of get it all prepared and ready, but it was chill.”

    Chill? Maybe for her. Fans on social media couldn’t believe the turnaround.

    Another fan gushed, “Lydia’s AS10 casting is probably the craziest & gaggiest AS casting they’ve ever done. It’s kinda iconic.”

    Despite the whirlwind schedule, Lydia didn’t hesitate when offered a second shot at the crown. “It was an automatic yes,” she said. “To go back, I feel like you can’t pass up on an opportunity to A, be on TV, and also B, get to share your art in front of RuPaul. So yeah, automatically, I was like, ‘F**k yeah, why not? What do I have to lose?’”

    She described the experience as surreal. “I feel like I’m in two different timelines at the same time. So it’s been a lot… late-night breakdowns do be happening, but I think I’m handling it pretty well. I’m keeping my head above water.”

     

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    A post shared by Lydia B Kollins (@foreheadbrows)

    Lydia is part of All Stars 10’s largest cast ever, with 18 returning queens in what’s being dubbed the “Tournament of All Stars.” The new format divides contestants into three brackets of six queens, each battling it out over three episodes. The top performers will advance to the semi-finals and eventually to an epic Lip Sync Smackdown for the Crown.

    Joining Lydia are returning legends including Acid Betty, Aja, Bosco, Denali, Ginger Minj, Mistress Isabelle Brooks, and many more.

    RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10 premieres May 9 exclusively on Paramount+.

  • ‘Drag Race’ Star Jiggly Caliente Undergoes Leg Amputation Following Severe Health Complication

    ‘Drag Race’ Star Jiggly Caliente Undergoes Leg Amputation Following Severe Health Complication

    Jiggly Caliente, a beloved performer known for her appearances on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and as a co-host on “Drag Race Philippines,” has undergone a partial leg amputation following a serious medical emergency, her family announced.

    Caliente, whose real name is Bianca Castro, experienced a “severe infection” that led to hospitalization and the subsequent loss of most of her right leg, according to a statement shared by her family on Instagram.

    “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 post read. “Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg.”

    The statement also confirmed that Caliente will not appear in the upcoming season of “Drag Race Philippines” and will not be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future. “Her recovery will be extensive,” the family wrote.

    Fans and fellow performers have been asked to respect Caliente’s privacy during this time. “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,” the statement said. “Bianca’s family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers.”

    Support has poured in from across the drag and LGBTQ+ community. Fellow “Drag Race” alum Manila Luzon commented, “Praying for you, sister,” while Jujubee added, “I love you so much. Can’t wait to see you again.”

    Other well-wishers included Hannah Conda from “Drag Race Down Under,” who wrote, “Sending so much love my angel,” and Spankie Jackzon, who added, “Thinking of you… take it as it comes.” Comments of love and encouragement also came from Raja, Kween Kong, Marina Summers, Pangina Heals, and Morphine Love Dion, among others.

    Jiggly Caliente rose to fame after competing on Season 4 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2012, and later returned for “All Stars” Season 6 in 2021. In 2016, she publicly came out as a transgender woman and has since become a prominent voice and advocate for trans visibility in the entertainment industry.

    Beyond reality television, Caliente has appeared on FX’s acclaimed series “Pose,” which explores the underground ballroom culture of 1980s New York City and features a predominantly LGBTQ+ cast. Her absence in the upcoming season of the popular franchise will be deeply felt by fans, many of whom credit Caliente with providing authentic representation and heartfelt mentorship on the show.

    For those wishing to send encouragement, Caliente’s family encourages fans to leave messages on her official social media pages.