Former Olympic swimmer and gender-critical campaigner Sharron Davies has been criticised for her “disgusting” reaction to the BBC covering the death of RuPaul’s Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente.
In a post on X/Twitter yesterday (28 April), Davies quoted a post from the BBC News UK X account, which had shared news of Drag Race stars mourning the reality TV star and drag queen, who died over the weekend aat the age of 44.
“When will this stop BBC? Endless drag stories. I’d love to know who’s responsible,” Davies wrote in a post, which has since received mass backlash.
“It’s a f**king obituary you f**king ghoul get a life,” replied journalist Rachel Charlton-Dailey.
Deputy Green Party leader Zack Polanksi wrote that the post was “disgusting”.
“I’ve gotta disagree on this one Sharron,” wrote “anti-woke” podcaster Jack Jewell. “Drag is popular with lots of progressives, whether you like it or not. I think it’s fine to report a death…”
Actress Faye Wheeler summarised: “You are a heartless person.”
Davies has been a prominent supporter of attempts to exclude transgender women from women’s sports, and has previously compared the inclusion of trans women in women’s sports to doping.
Olympian Sharron Davies. (Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)
She has also previously compared the art form of drag to blackface – but was swiftly shut down by Lorraine host and staunch trans ally, Lorraine Kelly.
Drag performer Jiggly Caliente, also known as Bianca Castro, died “peacefully” surrounded by her loved ones over the weekend.
The beloved trans Drag Race contestant and Drag Race Philippines co-judge died days after being hospitalised and having “most of her right leg” removed due to an infection.
After news of her death spread, a plethora of Drag Race alumni and stars from across the entertainment world paid tribute to a queen with “the biggest of hearts”.
Leading the tributes, Drag Race judge Michelle Visage wrote on Instagram: “My jiggles… The laughter was endless, our talks were special, your energy was contagious. You were and remain so very loved. This world has lost an angel and we want you to soar high…..I love you so much honey.”
After appearing on Drag Race season four, Jiggly went on to star in Ryan Murphy series Pose as haus member Veronica Ferocity, with her co-stars sharing emotional tributes on social media.
“I thank God for the memories of your laughter and joy in the make up trailer. For your Joy, your beauty and your sharp wisdom. For your courage, your perseverance,” wrote Indya Moore, who played Angel in the series.
“May Rest, Peace, Love and spiritual beauty be upon you beloved Jiggly.”
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