Cape Town — Legendary journalist Derek Watts has had his share of health scares the last few months, and now he’s decided to spend some time away from the camera to focus on his recovery.
Watts received wishes of love and support in April after he suffered severe sepsis.
At the time, he shared a picture of himself on Twitter lying in a hospital bed with ECG (Electrocardiogram) patches on his body. He told his fans that he had collapsed and later diagnosed with sepsis, which affected his ability to walk.
Morning! Looks scary but collapsed with suspected stroke in Hoedspruit 14 days ago and despatched to super pro Mill Park Hospital ICU. Diagnosed severe Sepsis which destroyed the bod in an hour! So learning to walk again. But back on your #carteblanche screen asap! @MNet @DStv pic.twitter.com/EuwubujWIU
— Derek Watts (@DerekWatts) April 2, 2023
Contrary to previous assurances of his return to Carte Blanche, it has been officially confirmed that he will not be coming back to the show. Instead, he is prioritising his recovery.
Carte Blanche released a statement and revealed that Watts was diagnosed with a skin cancer that spread to his lungs and they remain hopeful and optimistic about his journey toward recovery.
A video posted by Carte Blanche on Twitter showed Watts lying in a hospital bed where he gave an update to fans.
“Hey Mac and Claire, you’re doing such a stellar job with the show, along with the rest of the team. Another short hospital stay but I’ll be fine, I’ll be out of here soon. And I really just want to say to our viewers, thank you for all the love, the messages, the prayers that give us all hope. And thanks, of course, for continuing to watch Caret Blanche. I’ll be back soon,” he said.
UPDATE ON DEREK WATTS’ HEALTH@DerekWatts updates #CarteBlanche viewers on his health. Read the full statement now on our website. Papa D, the Carte Blanche family and MultiChoice team are behind you all the way. https://t.co/Tz9oeEXtdQ pic.twitter.com/KS9dI5Sqjy
— Carte Blanche (@carteblanchetv) June 11, 2023
Carte Blanche Executive Producer, John Webb said:“Following his cancer diagnosis, I know his resolve will be strengthened by the continued love and support of the people to whom he dedicated his working life. We join all of you in wishing strength and recovery to our patriarch, mentor, colleague, and friend.”
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Picture: Twitter/@JGVanZyl_ZA
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Matthew Petersen
