Did Derek Watts pass away?

South African broadcasting icon, and presenter on the renowned investigative programme Carte Blanche, Derek Watts, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 74. 

Watts reportedly died in the hospital surrounded by those closest to him.

The veteran journalist, who has been a familiar face on the screens of many South Africans for over three decades, was hospitalised after he was diagnosed with skin cancer that had spread to his lungs.

Watts had initially shared a video on his social media where shared that he had been diagnosed with severe sepsis.

In June, Mnet published a statement confirming the cancer diagnosis and thanked his many fans who had sent messages of support during his illness.

In a follow-up video, Watts confirmed he would be leaving the show after 35 years to focus on his health.

On Instagram, fellow broadcaster Bongani Bingwa described Watts as one of the kindest professionals he knew.

“One of the kindest, most generous professionals to ever do it. The room disappeared when he spoke to you. Even as a colleague, he made me feel like I was Mother Theresa. Condolences to Belinda and his children, Tyrone and Kirstin.”

Watts had been part of the Carte Blanche team since it began in 1988.