Derek Watts not returning to 'Carte Blanche' after 35 years

Derek Watts not returning to 'Carte Blanche' after 35 years

South African journalist and TV presenter, Derek Watts recently gave an update on his cancer diagnosis.

UPDATE ON DEREK WATTS' HEALTH @DerekWatts updates #CarteBlanche viewers on his health.
Carte Blanche anchor Derek Watts reveals cancer diagnosis. Image: Carte Blanche / Twitter

In March, veteran presenter Derek Watts announced his decision to step away from the camera to focus on his health after he was diagnosed with cancer.

Derek Watts
Twitter/ Screenshot

The announcement was made in a press release earlier this year, and although it seemed the ‘Carte Blanche’ presenter would only step away for a while, this was not the case.

EXCLUSIVE: Derek Watts gives update on life-threatening sepsis diagnosis

In a sit-down interview with Rapport, Watts said he would not return to the show after 35 years.

Watts added that it is not the “end of the world” that he will be leaving the show, as it has been discussed that this would be his last year.

“35 is a good number,” he said. “The program is in a good spot. There are wonderful people and journalists who are not scared to ask difficult questions.” 

READ: Derek Watts steps away from TV amid cancer diagnosis

Watts was diagnosed with skin cancer last year that has since spread to his lungs.

Derek has touched the lives of many throughout his remarkable career, and his unwavering spirit has been a source of inspiration for all.

This was especially clear when, earlier this year, he was hospitalised with severe sepsis.

“Derek took enormous comfort from the thousands of messages he received during his recovery from sepsis,” 'Carte Blanche' Executive Producer, John Webb, says.

“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.” 

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