“Our superlatives exhausted, what is left to be said about Derek Watts not already reflected in the thousands of tributes that followed news of his death? From politicians to sports stars and fellow hacks, the memories and messages have been overwhelming. Still, I wonder if any of us have done true justice to the legacy of this remarkable man. How do you capture a life lived as Derek lived his; one squeezed of every ounce of adventure and possibility and promise yet one so devoid of selfishness? I have tried – as I’m sure others have, too – but my words are inadequate. No matter which I choose, or how I order them, nothing that comes from my lips brings to life the images of the man in my head. The best I can do – we can do – is to live a life that leaves others in a similar quandary when our time comes.” – John Webb, Executive Producer
A Gentle Giant
Where do you begin to eulogise a man who has meant so much to so many people? This Sunday, the Carte Blanche family stands together to pay tribute to our beloved colleague and friend, Derek Watts. Derek was a remarkable man, fearless in the pursuit of justice. He was a beacon for the forgotten and downtrodden, and a steadying hand amid chaos and anxiety. He embodied the ideal, “umntu ngumntu, ngabantu” (I am because you are), connecting with people from all walks of life and treating each with dignity and respect. He dedicated his life to telling South Africa’s story.
In 1988, producer Bill Faure approached Derek to co-host a new show, Carte Blanche, which would air on M-Net every Sunday night. Forty years old, easy-going, sports mad… Derek might not have been an obvious choice, but his charisma and the chemistry he shared with co-host Ruda Landman created a dynamic partnership that audiences found irresistible. As Carte Blanche grew and evolved, covering the seminal moments of South Africa’s changing story, Derek too went from strength to strength. The stories he told reflected this: from reporting on the Boipatong Massacre where the crew filmed through the night as Derek confronted politicians and gave the victims and their families a much-needed voice, to traveling to the foot of Mount Everest and every possible corner of South Africa. In the 35 years he spent with the show, his passion never dimmed and he never lost his unique ability to connect with people.
We will miss him tremendously, but we draw strength and inspiration from the incredible legacy he leaves behind. Our deepest condolences to his beloved Belinda, Tyrone, Kirsten, and his siblings. Lala ngoxolo Papa D, ugqatso ulufezile. Umzamo omhle uwuzamile. Rest in perfect peace.
Producer: Diana Lucas | Camera: Justin Barlow | Editor: Jan Potgieter
