Cal Wilson dead at 53: Rebel Wilson leads celebrity tributes to late comedian

Following the shock passing of New Zealand-born stand-up comedian Cal Wilson, her many famous friends have shared tributes to the TV presenter, who passed away following a short illness on Wednesday.

Her management, Token Artists, confirmed the news, telling Yahoo Lifestyle that Cal 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.

The news was shared on Cal's Instagram with the caption reading, "Cal was loved by her family, friends, fans and peers, and a huge hole has been torn in the heart of our community."

"This is so tragic, and my heart goes out to Cal’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," Rebel Wilson commented on the post.

"I can’t even comprehend this right now," Shaynna Blaze added. "The most divine, radiant person, who I have watched, admired and worked alongside. This is heartbreaking. So much love to her husband, son and family. This is a very, very sad day."

"Unbelievable. She was beautiful in every way, an amazing talent, such a quick brain, and so much style and taste," Rhys Darby said. "This hurts hard. Sending big love to Chris, Digby and family."

"Oh my goodness. I’m shaking," Grant Denyer shared. "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."

"Absolutely devastating," Dylan Alcott wrote. "Cal, you are such a beautiful person who always had time for everyone. Was always a pleasure anytime I got to work next to you

"My heart is broken for her family and for everyone that has ever met her because she was amazing 💔 today is a terrible day," Urzila Carlson added.

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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