Cal Wilson, New Zealand comedian and TV host, dies aged 53

Cal Wilson, the New Zealand standup comedian who became a mainstay on Australian television over a 20-year career, has died at the age of 53.

Her death was confirmed in a statement released by her artist management agency. She died on Wednesday, the statement read, “surrounded by family and friends after a short illness at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney”.

“Cal’s generosity, talent and friendship have been constants in the Australian comedy scene for the last twenty years,” the statement continued. “Cal was loved by her family, friends, fans and peers and a huge hole has been torn in the heart of our community.”

Wilson was born in Christchurch, New Zealand before she moved to Melbourne in 2003, two years after winning the best newcomer award at Melbourne international comedy festival, where she was a mainstay and a board member. She appeared on Spicks and Specks and Good News Week and in her own Netflix special.

A multiple guest on early seasons of Australia’s Thank God You’re Here, she most recently co-hosted The Great Australian Bake Off alongside Natalie Tran; artist management Token confirmed this was in production when Wilson was admitted to hospital for the first time.

In a comment under an Instagram post announcing Wilson’s death, fellow TV presenter Grant Denyer said: “I can’t believe what I’m reading. How unbelievably sad. The most tender, kind, generous and talented performer I’ve ever had the pleasure to work alongside. This is devastating.”

Wilson is survived by her husband Chris and son Digby.