Iconic Carte Blanche anchor and veteran journalist Derek Watts died today after battling cancer. According to The South African, Derek announced last month that after 35 years, he would not be returning to the show due to his health.
TshisaLIVE reports that Derek was diagnosed with skin cancer last year, which reportedly spread to his lungs.
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Derek’s family have not yet issued a statement about his death. Although, Netwerk 24 stated they had received confirmation of Derek’s passing from his daughter Kirsten.
The publication reportedly shared a WhatsApp message from her, reading:
“We are shattered, he was the most wonderful person we knew. He always thought of others and last night said he wanted to thank all his viewers. He appreciated them and loved his job.”
Many made their way to X (formerly Twitter) to share their condolences and memories of the renowned journalist.
Journalist Karyn Maughan wrote, “A gentle giant has left us. Rest in peace Derek Watts. Thank you for the way you led your life and your incredible journalism.
Thank you for being brave and kind. And thank you for always believing that things should be better. You blessed us all.”
A gentle giant has left us.
Rest In Peace Derek Watts.
Thank you for the way you led your life and your incredible journalism.
Thank you for being brave and kind. And thank you for always believing that things should be better.
You blessed us all. pic.twitter.com/Qneh1lntuD— Karyn Maughan (@karynmaughan) August 22, 2023
Broadcast journalist Graeme Raubenheimer shared, “When you’re out on a story & you see a towering gentleman at the centre of it all, asking the most important questions, then you know it’s a BIG one.
This is how I remember a kind & pro #DerekWatts in the field. The first time I was like: ‘Holy shit! That’s Derek Watts!’ RIP.”
When you’re out on a story & you see a towering gentleman at the centre of it all, asking the most important questions, then you know it’s a BIG one. This is how I remember a kind & pro #DerekWatts in the field. The first time I was like: “Holy shit! That’s Derek Watts!”. RIP.
— Graeme Raubenheimer (@GraemeRauby) August 22, 2023
Carte Blanche has also taken to twitter to announce the death of Derek Watts.
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“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Carte Blanche anchor and icon, Derek Watss. He passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, surrounded by loved ones.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife and children, in this time of loss. He will forever hold a special place in the hearts and minds of his Carte Blanche family.”
It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Carte Blanche anchor and icon, Derek Watts. He passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning surrounded by loved ones. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife and children in this time of loss. He will forever hold a… pic.twitter.com/hyK9nghkNe
— Carte Blanche (@carteblanchetv) August 22, 2023
