RIP Derek Watts - Remembering Carte Blanche’s authentic broadcasting superstar

After more than three decades as the face of the most potent investigative programme on South African television, Derek Watts (74) was one of the most recognisable of any face in his homeland. Watts passed away from cancer yesterday morning. Judging by the spontaneous public response, the nation truly appreciated this gentle giant. For almost 20 years, John Webb had been Watt’s friend, confidant and boss. He shared how the late broadcaster was exactly the same - either in front of or away from the camera. RIP Derek Watts. - Alec Hogg

Video production by Asime Nyide

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Timestamps
00:07 - Introductions
01:06 - John Webb on the outpouring of tributes for the late Derek Watts
02:27 - On Carte Blanche and where Derek fits into it
04:29 - On what Derek would’ve wanted in his honor in the future
06:00 - On Derek passing peacefully
07:04 - On when Derek was last involved with the program
09:21 - The extent of Derek’s involvement with the show Carte Blanche
12:04 - How long did he and Derek work together
14:21 - The tough time that were had together
16:02 - The Carte Blanche ethos
17:39 - On how Derek would have liked to have been remembered
19:13 - Conclusions

[brucemcdonald]

Thank you BizNews for presenting this, reminding us what a brilliant person Derek was, who will be missed. RIP Derek.

[magdasmith]

Derek Watts is such a household name. Such a brave and courageous man till the end. I salute him. We all love him even though we've never met him. Condolences to his family, colleagues and friends. RIP Derek.❤

[garrettscanlon]

From Ireland, a brave and no nonsense man. The world needs and certainly South Africa needs more people like Derek one of the honest, truthful guys. He made a lot of sacrifices and a lot of hard work but he was good to all people. I came across him in the 1980s in very troubled times in South Africa and we will miss him greatly. Well done to all the guys at Carte Blanche. RIP Derek

[KatiaBeeden]

I'm so sad, what a loss for South Africa. Rest in peace Derek.

[stevenbayne]

A True Statesman and Honesty for Journalism in this country!!
Derek, you are sourly missed !!
Sincerest condolences to the Watts Family 😢
RIP Derek 🙏

[MbuyisaMcusi]

Great he wasn't a propaganda hack. Filling hearts and minds with hatred.

Only a joy to watch and thought 💭 provoking. May his soul Rest in peace ✌.

[gailallwn]

Rip Derrick. Blessings and Kindness to your loved ones. Thank you ❤🙏😢

[lukasdewaal]

A great loss, a quality individual of note

[ashadevlal]

Derek was my man. Sunday will never be the same again. I loved you.

[hannah]

I got the pleasure of meeting him ❤ he was the same on TV as he was I real life.

[TWGypsey]

Derek earned the unreserved respect of his fellow professional broadcasters. A privilege to have known him.

[ftS]

Absolute legend. He had a top star innings. RIP DW

[tarynretief]

God Bless you Derek may you be resting with the Angels. We loved you dearly and you have been part of my life for 35 years. Thank you for everything

[ThunderDucky]

RIP. He had such a demanding and prominent voice. Sunday nights will be left empty.

[lindawarren]

Condolences to the Family, Colleagues and Friends during their time of immense sorrow. I met the late Derek Watts in the lift at The Star building many moons ago, so human, so very genuinely pleasant at my enthusiasm. RIP dear Sir.

[shereem]

Thank you Derek for all the years you where a phenomenal journalist

[gysgijsbers]

A true & brave South African has moved on, RIP Derek Watts 🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦🌠✨️

[Scoops-gj]

What a legend he will be sorely missed...RIP DEREK WATTS.

[dinkzoG-man]

What a man, what a true South African , more like Leon Schuster, REST WELL Derek!!

[madeleinedonaldson]

Condolences to Derek's loved ones.Derek is free from pain and discomfort, he will be a huge loss to TV
Always proffesional and totally dedicated RIP🙏🙏🙏