Photo of Staff Bona

Veteran journalist Derek Watts has died

3y By Staff Bona

Iconic Carte Blanche anchor and veteran journalist Derek Watts died today after battling cancer.

According to The South African, Derek announced last month that after 35 years, he would not be returning to the show due to his health. TshisaLIVE reports that Derek was diagnosed with skin cancer last year, which reportedly spread to his lungs.

Derek’s family have not yet issued a statement about his death. Although,  Netwerk 24 stated they had received confirmation of Derek’s passing from his daughter Kirsten.

The publication reportedly shared a WhatsApp message from her, reading:

“We are shattered, he was the most wonderful person we knew. He always thought of others and last night said he wanted to thank all his viewers. He appreciated them and loved his job.”

Many made their way to X (formerly Twitter) to share their condolences and memories of the renowned journalist.

Journalist Karyn Maughan wrote, “A gentle giant has left us. Rest in peace Derek Watts. Thank you for the way you led your life and your incredible journalism. Thank you for being brave and kind. And thank you for always believing that things should be better. You blessed us all.”

Broadcast journalist Graeme Raubenheimer shared, “When you’re out on a story & you see a towering gentleman at the centre of it all, asking the most important questions, then you know it’s a BIG one. This is how I remember a kind & pro #DerekWatts in the field. The first time I was like: ‘Holy shit! That’s Derek Watts!’ RIP.”

Also see: Tasha Cobbs Leonard to entertain SA with spring gospel shows

WORK & MONEY

5 Ways to create financial heritage for the next generation

On Heritage Day, the fire gets lit, the meat goes on, and the family gathers. Recipes get passed down, along with languages, stories and strong opinions about the Boks. Money usually does not enter the chat. Also see: How your emotions are quietly wrecking your finances “We tend to think of heritage as what we inherit,” […]

Read more...
LIFESTYLE

RentaKleen: Cape Town woman leaves stable job to start thriving deep-cleaning business with wife

After leaving the media space in 2024, Cape Town-based entrepreneur Ashleigh Johnson made an unlikely career pivot: starting a deep-cleaning service, RentaKleen. While her wife, CJ, had her doubts, the former visual merchandiser joined Ashleigh, helping make RentaKleen a sweeping success. Also see: Spring cleaning checklist: What to tackle room by room From glamour to grime… […]

Read more...
CELEBRITIES

Heritage Day: Local celebrities share what they love most about South Africa

From its incredible diversity of cultures and languages to its breathtaking natural landscapes and seriously good food, South Africa is a country with plenty to celebrate this Heritage Day. Also see: Thebe Magugu and Woolworths join forces for Heritage Day As South Africans celebrate Heritage Day, local personalities Carol Ofori and Wiseman Mncube are sharing some […]

Read more...