Australia in shock as comedian Cal Wilson dies aged 53

Comedian Cal Wilson’s cause of death has been revealed after her tragic death aged 53, as famous Aussies pay tributes to her.

Loving tributes have poured in from Australia and New Zealand’s top comedians and entertainers after the shock death of Cal Wilson.

The much loved writer and actor was 53 when she died on Wednesday, following a short illness at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

News of Wilson’s passing was confirmed via her Instagram account, where family, friends, and fans have shared their condolences in droves.

She is usually based in Melbourne but has been in Sydney filming Bake Off, when she was admitted to hospital after being treated for lower back pain.

Doctors are understood to have diagnosed the comedian with a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

The Block host Shaynna Blaze described the news as “heartbreaking”.

“I can’t even comprehend this right now. The most divine, radiant person who I have watched, admired and worked alongside,” she wrote.

Comedian Cal Wilson hosted The Great Australian Bake Off on Foxtel.

Fellow comedian Myf Warhust, who appeared alongside Wilson on Spicks and Specks, wrote: “Oh Cal, what utterly devastating news. What a joy it was to be in her magnificent orbit over the years. My love to all who love her x.”

Presenter Grant Denyer also expressed his sadness, writing: “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. Xox.”

Wilson is survived by her husband, Chris, and son, Digby, with the family requesting privacy.

“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,” a statement from management firm, Token, 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.”

Comedian Cal Wilson, who was part of the Whose Line is it Anyway? Photographed at Bowen Hills, Brisbane. Picture: Claudia Baxter

Dozens of celebrities shared personal stories, speaking of Wilson’s impact on their lives and work.

Hollywood actor Rebel Wilson revealed Wilson had written for her in recent years.

“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.”

Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott described the news as “absolutely devastating”.

“Cal you are such a beautiful person who always had time for everyone. Was always a pleasure any time I got to work next to you,” he said.

Cal Wilson on Great Australian Bake Off. Picture: Foxtel

Wilson was born in Christchurch, New Zealand and made a career across television, radio and the stage in her home country, Australia and around the world.

Recently, she became a viral star on TikTok with millions of views on her videos.

Dave Hughes remembered his friend as “a beautiful soul”.

“So talented, so generous, we are all in shock,” Hughes told Confidential. “I feel so much for her husband and son,” he said.

Fellow Kiwi comedian Melanie Bracewell said she “feels so lucky” she got to know her.

“Cal was one of the first women I saw on TV regularly being funny. I thought ‘I so wish I could be her friend’.”

The comedian appeared on many popular television shows, including Have You Been Paying Attention?, The Project, Thank God You’re Here, Spicks and Specks, Would I Lie to You? and Hughesy, We Have a Problem.

Cal Wilson on Great Australian Bake Off. Picture: Foxtel

Cal Wilson on I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out Of Here!

Earlier this year she appeared on SBS show, Who The Bloody Hell Are We?

On reality television, she competed on Dancing With The Stars and I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out Of Here! and she hosted Foxtel’s The Great Australian Bake Off.

Cal Wilson posing beside Andrea Huelin's Packing Room Prize 2023 portrait of her titled 'Clown Jewels' in early 2023. Picture: Don Arnold/WireImage

Pictured at Concord in Sydney in August 2022 is Cal Wilson (host) Darren Purchese (judge) Rachel Khoo (judge) and Natalie Tran (host) ahead of the first day of filming the new season of The Great Australian Bake Off. Picture: Richard Dobson

“We are all completely devastated to lose such an amazing, vibrant person,” Foxtel Group General Manager Lifestyle Wendy Moore said.

“Cal joined our Bake Off cast last year and instantly brought her unique sparkle to the show.

“Her professionalism, work ethic and genuine heartwarming humour instantly made her a favourite among cast and crew, as well as the Australian audience.

“We will all miss her so much, and our hearts go out to her family and friends.”

Comedian Urzila Carlson said “my heart is broken for her and for everyone that has ever met her because she was amazing. Today is a terrible day”.