Veteran TV host, Derek Watts (74) passes away

GAUTENG – Veteran TV host and journalist Derek Watts has passed away yesterday in hospital following a battle with cancer. Watts reportedly died in the hospital surrounded by those closest to him. The veteran journalist, who has been a familiar face on the screens of many South Africans for over three decades, was hospitalised after he was diagnosed with skin cancer that had spread to his lungs.

Watts had initially shared a video on his social media where shared that he had been diagnosed with severe sepsis. In June, Mnet published a statement confirming the cancer diagnosis and thanked his many fans who had sent messages of support during his illness. In a follow up video, Watts confirmed he would be leaving the show after 35 years to focus on his health. Watts had been part of the Carte Blanche team since it began in 1988.

Watts is survived by his wife Belinda and children, Tyrone and Kirstin.