Natalie Tran breaks down over co-host Cal Wilson's death on The Project: 'Devastated'

Natalie Tran broke down in tears on Wednesday night as she remembered her good friend Cal Wilson on The Project after the New Zealand-born comedian and presenter died at the age of 53.

Her management, Token Artists, confirmed the news on Wednesday morning, telling Yahoo Lifestyle that Cal died surrounded by family and friends at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

Speaking on The Project, Nat shared, "I think, like anyone who had the pleasure knowing Cal, I'm devastated. I don't think you could find a single person who would have anything bad to say about her. She was a beautiful person, so kind and giving and funny."

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She added, "I'm very grateful to have known her... it's a very sad day."

Host Sarah Harris asked Nat what it was like to work with Cal on The Great Australian Bake Off, with the presenter laughing through her sadness and telling the panel, "Cal was like working with a Santa Claus who didn't care if you were naughty or nice, you got presents anyway."

Nat wore earrings given to her by Cal on the first day that they met, adding, "She was a cheerleader for every single person who worked with her and we all loved her very much."

When asked to describe Cal, she broke down, saying, "I would describe Cal as someone who absolutely adored and loved [husband] Chris and [son] Digby."

"She was one of the greatest humans you could meet," she said. "The world is a much sadder place without Cal."

'Very sick'

Cal also co-hosted The Great Australian Bake Off with Darren Purchese and Rachel Khoo, with Darren sharing a post about the last time he saw Cal, who appeared 'very sick'.

"I am utterly devastated to hear my beautiful friend Cal is no longer with us…" he wrote on Instagram. "I cannot even start to comprehend what her amazing husband Chris and her cherished son Digby must be going through. I am so sorry for all of this."

He added, "Cal was a light and such a joyful good person, funny and the kindest. She always looked out for everyone and had a huge social conscience. She championed for inequalities, stood up to bullies and always did the right thing. She cared for everyone and was the best person you could ever meet."

"I am sorry this has happened to such a good person and I cannot get out of my head the last time I saw her when she was very sick," Darren continued. "I wish I could give her a hug and tell her how much she means to me and so many people. This is so unfair and I will never forget my precious time with Cal.

"We love you Calbo, rest in peace."

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