Popular New Zealand comedian Cal Wilson dies aged 53
The radio and TV personality passed away following a short illness.
Popular New Zealand stand-up comedian and TV presenter Cal Wilson has passed away at age 53.
Her management Token Artists confirmed the news on Wednesday morning, telling Yahoo Lifestyle that she died surrounded by family and friends at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.
“We are devastated to share the news that Cal Wilson, the much-loved stand-up comedian, writer and actor died today, surrounded by family and friends after a short illness at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney,” the statement read.
“Cal’s generosity, talent and friendship have been constants in the Australian comedy scene for the last twenty years. Cal was loved by her family, friends, fans and peers and a huge hole has been torn in the heart of our community.
“Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, Cal moved to Melbourne in 2003 to star in the sketch show, Skithouse. She went on to become one of Australia’s best-known comedians with appearances on Spicks and Specks, Good News Week, Would I Lie To You and in her own Netflix stand-up special.”
Born in Christchurch, New Zealand, Cal became a popular comedian in Australia through her work at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. She won the Best Newcomer Award at the festival in 2001 and later became a member of its board.
Cal was also well-known for her work in radio, hosting a drive show alongside Akmal Saleh in 2007 and a morning show with Dylan Lewis in 2009, and her regular appearances on Have You Been Paying Attention?.
The mother-of-one was the third eliminated contestant on Dancing With The Stars in 2008, and also competed on last year’s season of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! where she finished in eighth place.
She recently co-hosted The Great Australian Bake Off’s seventh season alongside Natalie Tran and judges Darren Purchase and Rachel Khoo.
The reality cooking competition aired from June to August, with her management confirming to Yahoo Lifestyle that the show was in production when she was first admitted to hospital.
Cal is survived by her husband, Chris Woods, whom she married in 2008, and their son Digby.
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