Tributes pour in following Derek Watts' passing
TV legend Derek Watts has lost his battle with cancer.
Many South Africans had the honour of engaging with renowned television star Derek Watts on a Sunday evening during Carte Blanche.
For decades, Watts fearlessly reported on countless stories; shedding light on corruption, exposing injustices, and captivating audiences with his unwavering dedication to journalistic integrity.
READ: Derek Watts loses his battle with cancer
Sadly, Watts lost his battle with cancer on Tuesday, 22 August 2023.
"He passed peacefully on his 75th birthday surrounded by family," reports ECR NewsWatch.
Words cannot describe this incredible loss to the journalism community. Our deepest condolences are shared with the Watts family, his friends and co-workers, and all who tuned in to hear from this truth-seeker.
Stacey and J Sbu share: "We were heartbroken to hear the news. We follow him on Instagram and noted it was his birthday today. Rest in power, Derek."
READ: 'Carte Blanche' anchor Derek Watts shares candid cancer diagnosis
Following the news of his death, tributes have been pouring in all over social media.
A broadcasting legend that was the longest serving anchor of #CarteBlanche since it’s first airing 35 years ago, has passed away.
— uBafo (@BafokengMothebe) August 22, 2023
RIP Derek Watts. What a loss!
@carteblanchetv So sad to hear Derek Watts has passed away. We always looked forward to Sunday nights. Our condolences to his family and friends.
— Mel (@Meljanken) August 22, 2023
Haibo not Derek Watts. RIP legend. You were a big part of all our lives. Get some perfect rest 🕊️
— Jared (@jetmoses21) August 22, 2023
Part of the family. A South African institution is no more.
— That Niels Momberg (@nielspm) August 22, 2023
RIP Derek Watts . You made your mark and you will be missed.🙏💔
A gentle giant has left us.
— Karyn Maughan (@karynmaughan) August 22, 2023
Rest In Peace Derek Watts.
Thank you for the way you led your life and your incredible journalism.
Thank you for being brave and kind. And thank you for always believing that things should be better.
You blessed us all. pic.twitter.com/Qneh1lntuD
Rest in Peace Derek Watts.😢 This is a sad day for SA. A true Legend of TV. Our Sundays will never be the same again. Condolences to his family and friends.
— Kitty (@kitzluvs) August 22, 2023
Derek Watts has been a staple on South African television for decades. This is such heartbreaking news and I think we can all agree about that. Thank you, Derek. Off to the big Carte Blanche studio in the sky. pic.twitter.com/MwKvXBmT3D
— SUPERINFORMATIVE on TikTok (@i_likebrandon) August 22, 2023
Big loss to the journalism fraternity. Rest well, Derek Watts. You have crafted the path for many aspiring journalists. Your legacy will continue to roam these streets. 💔 pic.twitter.com/ZC7cobSIid
— Rasaad Adams (@RasaadAdams) August 22, 2023
RIP, Derek Watts. You will be missed.
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