South African television icon and Carte Blanche anchor, Derek Watts will take a step back from his work to focus on his health, according to a statement released on Sunday.
“Last year, Derek was diagnosed with skin cancer that had spread to his lungs,” read the statement released by Carte Blanche.
This comes just over two months after he collapsed from a suspected stroke during a family trip in Hoedspruit and subsequently received a diagnosis of severe sepsis.
He then had to learn how to walk again with the help of physiotherapy.
Following the cancer diagnosis, Derek was able to continue presenting South Africa’s longest-running investigative journalism TV programme with the support of specialists alongside his family.
“While this news is undoubtedly disheartening, we remain hopeful and optimistic about Derek’s journey towards recovery. We have complete confidence in the expertise and dedication of his medical team, who will provide the best possible care and support throughout this process,” continues the statement.
The programme shared a taped recording of Derek in a hospital bed, commending his team for their work on the show and sharing that he planned to return to the show when he’s better.
UPDATE ON DEREK WATTS’ HEALTH@DerekWatts updates #CarteBlanche viewers on his health. Read the full statement now on our website. Papa D, the Carte Blanche family and MultiChoice team are behind you all the way. https://t.co/Tz9oeEXtdQ pic.twitter.com/KS9dI5Sqjy
— Carte Blanche (@carteblanchetv) June 11, 2023
“Another short hospital stay, but I’m fine – I’ll be out of here soon,” said Derek before thanking Carte Blanche viewers for continuing to watch the show as well as for their love, messages and prayers ‘that give us all hope’.
In the statement, Carte Blanche Executive Producer, John Webb said:
“Following his cancer diagnosis, I know his resolve will be strengthened by the continued love and support of the people to whom he dedicated his working life. We join all of you in wishing strength and recovery to our patriarch, mentor, colleague and friend”.
Derek Watts has been with Carte Blanche since its inception in 1988 and has won numerous journalism awards for his work.
He is widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most respected journalists, and with over thirty years of experience in journalism, he has become a household name.
MultiChoice Group CEO of General Entertainment Nomsa Philiso also wished Derek well and offered continued support during this challenging time of his health journey on behalf of the M-Net team.
“We hold him, his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers and wish him strength and courage as he fights his illness,” said Philiso. “The team at M-Net has the utmost respect and admiration for Derek and his commitment to the channel for the last 36 years.”
The Hillbrow-born anchor, who grew up in Bulawayo, was the original co-host of Carte Blanche alongside Ruda Landman and has played an instrumental role in uncovering truth and justice in South Africa, as well as holding those in power accountable.
“We understand the interest in Derek’s progress, and we assure you that updates will be provided. During this challenging time, we kindly request that his privacy and that of his loved ones be respected, allowing him the space needed to focus on his recovery,” concluded the statement.
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Feature Image: Twitter / Carte Blanche
