Recently, it was reported that legendary investigative, Derek Watts died on Tuesday following a prolonged battle with cancer. Follow us around for all the insights and fresh updates. There were many tributes that were poured in after the death of a national broadcasting treasure. As we know, in a world where news moves like wildfire, there are some topics that do make a lasting impact on others. Therefore, Derek’s Watts demise is undoubtedly one of them. Explore further to know about the death’s cause and obituary details.
Did Derek Watts Have Cancer?
According to our relevant sources, Derek Watts is renowned for his fearless journalism and impressive broadcasting career and unfortunately passed away on August 22, 2023, at the age of 74. The cause of his death is revealed to be battling cancer. He was born in Johannesburg in 1949 and he commenced his journey into the world of media and made imprints that won’t easily fade. As we dig deep into his personal life and career, Derek’s passion for storytelling compelled him to study journalism at the University of the Witwatersrand. He began as a reporter for the Rand Daily Mail, and he eventually found his genre in investigative journalism.
His reputation and goodwill were boosted after collaborating with Carte Blanche, an investigative TV program in 1988. Prior to his demise, Derek was diagnosed with sepsis and skin cancer in 2022. Despite the medical interference, his health faced challenges that revolved around his battle with cancer among the public and reflected on the adversities many silently faced. In July 2023, he announced his exit from the TV realm and the news of his departure sensed the urgency of his health’s decline and decided to be vocal regarding the same. As mentioned above, the cause of his death was revealed as battling with cancer.
In August 2023, he brought forward another heart-wrenching revelation stating that he is battling with lung cancer. However, as we discuss Derek’s retirement from the TV, it was known that leaving the screen was not just a personal decision but a significant moment for South Africa’s media scene. However, Derek’s departure underscored the end of an era, which left the fans and colleagues to shed light on his unmatched contributions to the industry. Unfortunately, his demise news left an indelible mark on the people who loved and admired him.
Derek Watts’s Death Cause
Reportedly, Carte Blanche, his friend who had been a part of his life since its inception announced his death news. He posted a heartfelt condolence to his wife and children at this sensitive time. In a statement issued to the media outlet, it was revealed that the home of Carte Blanche, Nomsa Philiso, and Multichoice CEO General Entertainment expressed their heartfelt condolences. Furthermore, the Multichoice extends heartfelt prayers and condolences to the family and friends of the deceased soul. They remember him as a dedicated investigative journalist and a long-standing presenter of Carte Blanche. It was believed that his unwavering commitment and determination amidst all the challenges were truly commendable.
Moreover, Carte Blanche spoke candidly about his battle with cancer and praised his renowned career which spanned over 35 years. As mentioned above, he was diagnosed with skin cancer that eventually spread to his lungs. In July, he announced that would not return to the long-running investigative journalism show and focus more on his healing and recovery. There are many journalists and fans who began paying tributes and prayers to the broadcasting legend for his contribution to the industry. Unfortunately, Watts leaves behind his legacy, his wife, Belinda, and his children Tyron and Kirstin.
Significantly, the news of his departure came as a shock to the world and it spread like wildfire. Several social media platforms started pouring condolences, tributes, and memories of his influential career. Reportedly, his colleagues, fans, and even rivals expressed their sorrow, claiming the void his absence has created in the media landscape. There are many people who are marked as teary-eyed which proves his significance around the world.
There are many reasons why you can remember Derek’s golden era of investigative journalism and his stories, and interviews show all his glory. This will continue to serve as a beacon for budding journalists, reminding them of the power of truth. Concluding, while Derek Watts may no longer be with us, his legacy and work will certainly remain with us. The imprints of his journalistic powers will continue to inspire and motivate many out there and will ensure the light is never gone.
Thank you for being a patient reader.
Categories: Biography
Source: vtt.edu.vn