End of an Era: Carte Blanche Presenter Derek Watts Dies After Courageous Fight
In a heartbreaking update, Derek Watts, a beloved broadcaster and presenter of Carte Blanche, has passed away. He lost his fight against cancer on Tuesday. Derek had been a part of Carte Blanche, a current affairs program since its inception in 1988.
Born in Johannesburg, Derek Watts was diagnosed with skin cancer that later metastasized to his lungs. Earlier this year, he faced a serious health setback when he was hospitalized due to severe sepsis.
Derek Watts Dies After Courageous Battle Against Cancer
In a recorded message from his hospital bed at Netcare in June, Derek Watts shared his battle with cancer with Carte Blanche viewers. Despite his challenges, he expressed his intention to make a comeback on the show, saying, “I want to express my gratitude to our viewers for their love, messages, and prayers, which bring us hope. And of course, thank you for staying tuned to Carte Blanche. I’ll be back soon. Have a fantastic week and see you for now.”
Although Derek Watts had been continuing to present Carte Blanche with the support of his family and medical experts after being diagnosed with cancer last year, the onset of sepsis in March complicated his cancer treatment.
Farewell to a Television Icon
In a July interview with the Rapport newspaper, Derek Watts disclosed that he would not be returning to the Sunday night show on M-Net (DStv 101) and that his 35-year tenure as anchor and presenter had come to an end with Combined Artistic Productions.
Regarding this decision, he shared, “Some time ago, we discussed the possibility that this would be my final year anyway. The show is in capable hands, with remarkable individuals and journalists unafraid of asking tough questions.”
Derek Watts also recounted his health journey, revealing that he discovered a lump under his arm in early 2022. After persistent urging from his wife, Belinda, he finally visited the doctor. Unfortunately, the cancer had spread to his lungs, necessitating oxygen support due to reduced lung capacity. Although advised by his oncologists to resume chemotherapy, he had to pause the treatment to avoid exacerbating the sepsis condition.