In Memoriam: Derek Watts, A Titan of South African Journalism
South Africa has lost a media stalwart, a legendary anchor who carved a niche for himself in the realm of investigative journalism. Derek Watts, a veteran TV host and journalist, has passed away at the age of 74 after a courageous battle with cancer. He succumbed to the illness on Tuesday, marking the end of an illustrious 35-year tenure with Carte Blanche, a show that became synonymous with his name.
Born with a natural flair for storytelling and an insatiable curiosity, Watts gave voice to the voiceless and held the powerful to account. With an unyielding commitment to the truth, he transformed Carte Blanche into a beacon of journalistic integrity.
A Farewell from the Hospital Bed
In a pre-recorded message from his Netcare hospital bed last June, Watts gave a heartfelt farewell to his dedicated Carte Blanche audience, sharing the news of his battle with cancer. In the recording, he expressed gratitude for the support he received, saying, "Really just wanted 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 Carte Blanche. I'll be back soon, have a magic week and cheers for now."
An Uphill Medical Battle
Watts had been diagnosed with skin cancer last year, which later metastasized to his lungs. Despite undergoing treatment, his situation was further complicated when he contracted severe sepsis this past March. The infection hindered his ongoing cancer treatment and led him to relearn how to walk, but it couldn't dampen his eternal optimism.
A Final Season that Wasn't Meant to Be
Watts revealed in a Sunday interview with Rapport newspaper that he had originally planned to make this year his last season on Carte Blanche. Unfortunately, he had to step away sooner to focus on his health, a decision he took despite the reassurances from M-Net that he could return when ready. His time as a presenter and anchor had reached its end, but not before leaving an indelible mark on journalism.
The Man Behind the Stories
Beyond his professional accolades, Watts was a man admired for his humility and resilience. After ignoring a lump under his arm for several months, it was his wife Belinda's persistent encouragement that led him to seek medical advice. He admitted, "Like so many men, I didn't listen."
Favourite Moments
In his storied career, Watts experienced numerous unforgettable moments. He recalled landing on the George Washington aircraft carrier and interviewing Mark Shuttleworth, the first South African to travel to space, as some of his favorite experiences. His family, who stood unwaveringly by his side throughout his medical struggles, recalls him as not just a great journalist, but a loving family man.
Leaving a Legacy
Derek Watts leaves behind a rich legacy. In an era where journalism constantly battles accusations of being 'fake news,' Watts was a paragon of the objective, hard-hitting reporting that could bring about change. His optimism, even in the face of overwhelming odds, serves as an inspiration to all.
His departure is a tremendous loss to the media landscape, but the stories he told, the truths he uncovered, and the lives he touched will ensure that his memory continues to live on. Watts himself summarized his life's mission in one succinct statement: "There are absolutely wonderful people and journalists who ask the difficult questions without shying away." He was, undoubtedly, one of them.
Have a Magic Week
In his final words to his audience, Watts urged us all to have a "magic week." It's now our responsibility to honor his memory by living lives full of the kind of integrity, courage, and optimism he embodied.
Rest in peace, Derek Watts. You will be sorely missed, but never forgotten.
