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New Zealand stand-up comedian and writer Cal Wilson has died aged 53 after a “short illness”, prompting an outpouring of grief from Australian and international performers.
Wilson was best known for her work as a stand-up comedian who appeared at the Melbourne Comedy Festival 14 times, and was most recently the host of Great Australian Bake Off.
Her management Token Artists confirmed she died surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday.
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“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,” Token Artists said.
“Cal’s generosity, talent and friendship have been constants in the Australian comedy scene for the past 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.”
New Zealand comedian Cal Wilson. Credit: Giulia McGuaran
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Originally from Christchurch, Wilson moved to Melbourne in 2003 to star in the sketch show, Skithouse.
Wilson went on to become a favourite on shows such as Spicks And Specks, Good News Week and Would I Lie To You and starred in her own episode of Netflix stand-up comedy special, Comedians Of The World.
She was named an ensemble cast member in Whose Line Is It Anyway? Australia and later overcame her “aversion to the great outdoors” to join the cast of I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! in 2022.
Away from the screens and stages, Wilson also revealed her talent for children’s fiction, penning two books: George And The Great Bum Stampede and George And The Great Brain Swappery.
In lockdown, Wilson created “elaborate and ridiculous” headdresses that she shared online.
One of the headpieces made of doll parts and Christmas baubles inspired Perth-born artist Andrea Huelin to enter the country’s most prestigious portrait competition.
The painting, titled Clown Jewels, shows the beloved comedian with her trademark dyed pink hair and a hodge-podge crown of baubles flanked by sawed-off doll limbs, in a chair fit for Napoleon.
Andrea Huelin’s painting of Wilson wearing an elaborate self-made headdress won the 2023 Archibald Packing Room Prize. Credit: Nikki Short/AAP
‘I’m shaking’: Australian celebrities react to shock death of comedian Cal Wilson
Huelin initially wanted her debut entry to make fun of 19th century Victorian portraits and their depictions of women.
But when Wilson came in wearing her ostentatious and somewhat serial killer-esque doll hat, Huelin’s portrait changed.
“I looked up and thought ‘it’s a crown’,” she said in April.
“Over the course of the sitting it became clear that this was a kind of regalia for Cal.”
The painting took home the Art Gallery of NSW’s Packing Room Prize.
Wilson is survived by her husband, Chris and son, Digby.
Her former SlideShow co-star Grant Denyer has led tributes to the comedian, taking to her Instagram to thank her for “everything”.
“Oh my goodness. I’m shaking. I can’t believe what I’m reading. How unbelievably sad,” Denyer began.
“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.”
Cal Wilson on the 2023 season of Bake Off. Credit: Foxtel
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Denyer and Wilson appeared on the Channel 7 game show SlideShow in 2013.
Actress Rebel Wilson, who worked with the comedian on “multiple projects”, also shared a heartfelt tribute.
“This is so tragic and my heart goes out to Cal’s family,” she said.
“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.”
– With AAP
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