Cape Town – Veteran journalist Derek Watts has died.
He was away 74.
Watts died on Tuesday after a battle with lung cancer.
Condolence messages flooded the social media following the announcement of his death.
A sad day in broadcasting it is as @DerekWatts he unfortunately lost the battle with cancer. The full statement will be released shortly. Please give family space and ti.e to process. #RIPDerekWatts we shall continue to fly the Media and Journalism flag high. One love. pic.twitter.com/Y2crlwkzXQ
— Zola Hashatsi ka Motsiri (@zola_hashatsi) August 22, 2023
A giant of South African journalism. One of a kind. Thank you for setting the standard so incredibly high. For the masterful storytelling week after week on #CarteBlanche.
Rest in Peace Mr Derek Watts. You paved the way. My condolences to the Watts family. 😭🙏🏾 https://t.co/WhQXv7jsbf
— Govan Whittles 🇿🇦 (@govanwhittles) August 22, 2023
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 Theresa. Condolences to Belinda and his children, Tyrone and Kirstin. pic.twitter.com/s8NIrlPgQi
— Bongani Bingwa IG/TikTok: Bonglez (@bonglez) August 22, 2023
Earlier this year, he was admitted to the ICU following suspicions of a stroke.
“Looks scary, but collapsed with suspected stroke in Hoedspruit 14 days ago and dispatched to super-pro Milpark Hospital ICU,” Watts told fans, posting a photo from his hospital bed.
Carte Blanche confirmed his passing
“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 special place in the hearts and minds of his #CarteBlanche 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
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Picture: Twitter/@DerekWatts
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
