Photo: Giulia McGauran
New Zealand comedian and actor Cal Wilson has died in hospital in Sydney, aged 53.
In a statement, Token Artists said Wilson, originally from Christchurch, died surrounded by family and friends at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, following a short illness.
"Cal's generosity, talent and friendship have been constants in the Australian comedy scene for the last 20 years. Cal was loved by her family, friends, fans and peers and a huge hole has been torn in the heart of our community."
In a 2019 interview as part of TV series Funny As: The Story of New Zealand Comedy, Wilson said she learned to shape her jokes by listening to The Goon Show on the radio as a child.
"I always wanted to be an actor, I remember writing plays at school… I remember doing a play with my brother where we had a whole lot of polystyrene cups that I'd drawn faces on, it was like a puppet show behind the kitchen table.
"I always loved the idea of performing and I thought I would be an actor, but I had no idea how that would happen. I think I thought I was going to be a nurse or a teacher, because that's what girls did, but I wanted to be an actor because I thought that seemed magical."
Wilson was the inaugural winner of the Billy T Award in 1997, and won the Best Newcomer Award at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. She moved to Melbourne in 2003 to star in the sketch show, Skithouse.
"I had a comfortable life here, but I didn't think there was enough room for me to keep going and challenge myself," she told Funny As.
In 1994, Wilson survived a barrage of chicken drumsticks when an audience of poultry factory workers didn't enjoy her performance as part of a corporate theatre sports event.
She told Stuff that the event was "the worst gig of my life".
While continuing to work on New Zealand shows like The Project and 7 Days, Wilson went on to become one of Australia's best-known comedians with appearances on multiple TV shows and in her own Netflix stand-up special. She appeared at the Melbourne Comedy Festival 14 times and was a member of its board.
Wilson recently co-hosted The Great Australian Bake-Off.
Foxtel spokesperson Wendy Moore said in a statement that members of the company "are all completely devastated to lose such an amazing, vibrant person.
"Cal joined our Bake-Off cast last year and instantly brought her unique sparkle to the show. Her professionalism, work ethic and genuine heart-warming humour instantly made her a favourite amongst cast and crew, as well as the Australian audience. We will all miss her so much."
Tributes pour in for Wilson
A number of comedians and celebrities have shared tributes for Wilson following the news of her death.
On social media site X, Australian comedian Mikey Robins said Wilson was "one of the funniest, loveliest people to have ever graced the comedy stage".
"Cal Wilson was very special. My heart goes out to those who held her close."
On Instagram, Rove McManus said Wilson was "forever our queen".
Australian journalist Jan Fran said she could not comprehend the news.
"Go well gorgeous Cal. Love and strength to all who knew and loved her."
Journalist and author Jill Stark said it was "utterly heartbreaking".
"What a warm and generous soul she was. She shone so bright. Love and strength to her family and friends."
Comedian Sarah Millican was "heartbroken" while comedian Joel Creasey said there were no words.
"One of the biggest hearts in comedy."
Actor Rebel Wilson said the news was tragic and her heart went out to Wilson's family.
"I was very, very lucky to work with Cal on multiple projects especially over the last few years where she wrote brilliant material for me. She was amazingly talented and amazingly kind."
Kiwi actor and comedian Rhys Darby said the news was unbelievable.
"She was beautiful in every way. An amazing talent, such a quick brain and so much style and taste. This hurts hard. Sending big love to Chris, Digby and family."
Comedian Melanie Bracewell said Wilson was a "ray of sunshine" while Urzila Carlson said: "My heart is broken for her family and for everyone that has ever met her because she was amazing. Today is a terrible day."
Radio and tv personality Myf Warhurst, who worked with Wilson on Spicks and Specks, said the news of Wilson's death was devastating.
"What a joy it was to be in her magnificent orbit over the years. My love to all [who] love her."
TV personality Grant Denyer said: "Oh my goodness. I'm shaking. 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. Her poor family. Love you Cal... thanks for everything. You are very special."
Deborah Frances-White, Guilty Feminist podcaster, of which Wilson was a regular guest, said she would miss her "so very much".
"I can't believe we will never get to do another show together or have another hug. Cal, we adore you and will keep you alive in our conversations and memories and comedy and sharing your work - as long as we live.
Frances-White said it was a "a privilege to shine a light on Cal's huge fizzing talent, infectious joy and deep humanity" on her podcast.
Wilson is survived by her husband Chris and son Digby.
