Derek Watts: Veteran Journalist Dies After Battle With Lung Cancer, South Africa Mourns: “We Lost a Legend”

• South Africans on social media are mourning the death of Derek Watts who died after a long battle with lung cancer
• The news of the veteran journalist's death was reportedly confirmed by Ruda Landman, who said the star died on Tuesday, 22 August
• Social media has been awash with heartfelt tributes from the star's fans, followers and industry colleagues

The South African media fraternity is mourning the death of renowned media personality Derek Watts who died on Tuesday, 22 August 2023.

Veteran journalist Derek Watt dies

Seasoned South African broadcaster Derek Watts has died. According to reports on social media, the Carte Blanche host succumbed to lung cancer. The star was reportedly diagnosed with skin cancer which spread to his lungs.

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The news of Watts' death was reportedly confirmed by his Carte Blanche co-host Ruda Landman, who said he died in the early hours of 22 August. M-Net also shared a statement with Briefly News confirming the reports. Part of the statement read:

"MultiChoice extends its heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the family, friends and loved ones of the late Derick Watts. We remember him as a dedicated investigative journalist and a long-standing presenter of Carte Blache."

Tributes pour in for Derek Watts

Social media is awash with heartwarming tributes from fans and industry colleagues. Many said Mzansi has lost a legend.

Actor Zola Hashatsi wrote:

"It's crazy and scary to think that Uncle @derekwatts1 started his career on @carteblanchetv when I was born in 1988 and spent 35 years there. He has been battling with cancer, but I trust he is at peace now. A sad day in broadcasting it is as if he, unfortunately, lost the battle with cancer.

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"The full statement will be released shortly. Please give the family space and time to process. #RIPDerekWatts we shall continue to fly the Media and Journalism flag high. One love."

Journalist Yusuf Abramjee wrote:

"Sad news about the passing of Derek Watts. I got to know him as a young journalist when he was on the Sports Desk at the SABC. He later joined @carteblanchetv and continued to make his mark. Derek will be missed."

Lynn Forbes leaves fans in their feels with touching post about dealing with grief 6 months after AKA's death

In more entertainment news, Briefly News reported that Lynn Forbes is taking it one day at a time since her son AKA's murder in February this year. The grieving mom has been open about her journey on her social media platforms.

AKA's death left a huge void in his mother's life. Lynn Forbes has been open about how her life changed the moment she received the news of her son's death and how she has been coping since then.

Source: Briefly News