Carte Blanche legend Derek Watts dies after cancer battle

Carte Blanche legend Derek Watts dies after cancer battle

Derek Watts, the beloved presenter of South African investigative TV show Carte Blanche, has died after a battle with cancer.

The 65-year-old journalist passed away on Tuesday morning, surrounded by his loved ones.

Watts was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2022, which reportedly spread to his lungs. He was rushed to the ICU in June after a suspected stroke.

Derek Watts Cause Of Death

In a statement, Carte Blanche executive producer John Webb said: “We’re all deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague and patriarch. Having been with Carte Blanche from the beginning, Derek became synonymous with the show, and we acknowledge that it’s largely because of him that we have become who we are.”

M-Net, the channel that airs Carte Blanche, also issued a statement, saying: “We remember him as a dedicated investigative journalist and a long-standing presenter of Carte Blanche. His unwavering commitment to his work and his determination in the face of challenges were truly remarkable.”

Watts is survived by his wife Belinda and children Tyrone and Kirstin.

His colleague and fellow presenter Bongani Bingwa paid tribute to him on Twitter, saying: “One of the kindest, most generous professionals to ever do it. The room disappeared when he spoke to you. Even as a colleague, he made me feel like I was Mother Teresa. Condolences to Belinda and his children, Tyrone and Kirstin.”

Watts was a household name in South Africa, and his death has been met with widespread sadness and tributes. He was a respected journalist and broadcaster who dedicated his life to telling important stories. He will be deeply missed.