South Africans continue to mourn the loss of veteran journalist and beloved broadcaster Derek Watts, who passed away on 22 August 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was 74.
Two years on, his legacy remains deeply woven into the fabric of South African journalism and public life.
A Life in the Public Eye
Derek Watts became a household name over his three-decade tenure with Carte Blanche, South Africa’s longest-running investigative journalism programme.
With his calm demeanour, piercing questions, and unwavering commitment to the truth, Watts became synonymous with accountability journalism in the country.
Starting with Carte Blanche’s debut in 1988, Watts was one of the show’s original anchors and helped shape it into a cornerstone of South African current affairs broadcasting.
His reputation for fairness and integrity earned the respect of audiences across the political and cultural spectrum.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Watts’s reporting style stood out not only for its depth and precision but for his empathy.
He told stories that mattered – whether confronting corrupt politicians, standing up for exploited communities, or celebrating South African excellence.
“He never sought the spotlight for himself,” said co-anchor Devi Sankaree Govender in a 2023 tribute.
“He just wanted the story told right.”
Courage in the Face of Adversity
In 2022, Watts revealed that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer, which later metastasised.
Despite undergoing treatment and facing significant health challenges, he continued to engage with his audience and colleagues, offering transparency and grace throughout his journey.
His final months were marked by widespread public support, including heartfelt tributes from politicians, journalists, and everyday South Africans who had grown up watching his work.
Honours and Legacy
Throughout his career, Derek Watts received numerous awards for excellence in journalism, but it was the public trust he earned that defined his legacy.
In recognition of his lifetime contribution to media, several journalism awards in 2024 and 2025 were named in his honour, including:
- The Derek Watts Investigative Reporting Fellowship
- The Carte Blanche Derek Watts Memorial Lecture Series
A Family Man
Away from the camera, Watts was known for his love of family, nature, and rugby.
He often spoke fondly of his wife and children, and spent many weekends enjoying the outdoors.
“He was a professional, yes, but more than that – he was kind,” said longtime friend and producer George Mazarakis.
A Lasting Impact
Derek Watts was more than a journalist.
He was a symbol of principled storytelling, a calm voice in turbulent times, and an unwavering advocate for the public good.
As Carte Blanche and the South African public continue his legacy, Watts remains an enduring reminder that journalism, when done right, can make a difference.
Do you have any favourite Derek Watts memories?
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