[imagesource:twitter/carteblanche]

Shame, Derek Watts has really had a rof time with his health lately.

What was a suspected stroke, at the beginning of the year, turned out to be a severe case of sepsis that left the veteran Carte Blanche reporter tubed up in a hospital bed. Now, it has been revealed that he is actually battling cancer.

Watts was diagnosed with sepsis infection after he collapsed in Hoedspruit during a family trip and said that he had to learn to walk again with the help of a physiotherapist. On April 2, he posted a selfie while recovering at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg, letting his fans know that he was alright despite how bad he looked.

At the time, he reassured everyone that he was feeling better and stronger and getting the exercise he needs from his physio. Now it has been made official that the presenter will be stepping back from his work to thoroughly focus on his health.

News24 reports that Watts was diagnosed with skin cancer that had spread to his lungs last year already, noting that with the support of his family and specialists, he might be able to continue presenting Carte Blanche at some point:

“While this news is undoubtedly disheartening, we remain hopeful and optimistic about Derek’s journey toward recovery. We have complete confidence in the expertise and dedication of his medical team, who will provide the best possible care and support throughout this process”, reads the statement.

Again, Watts shared an encouraging message from his hospital bed on Saturday:

UPDATE ON DEREK WATTS’ HEALTH@DerekWatts updates #CarteBlanche viewers on his health. Read the full statement now on our website. Papa D, the Carte Blanche family and MultiChoice team are behind you all the way. https://t.co/Tz9oeEXtdQ pic.twitter.com/KS9dI5Sqjy

— Carte Blanche (@carteblanchetv) June 11, 2023

“Another short hospital stay, but I’m fine – I’ll be out of here soon,” Watts said, looking notably unwell as he goes on to thank all his supporters for their love and support.

Carte Blanche Executive Producer, John Webb, remains hopeful:

“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.”

Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment also said that the M-Net team is holding “him, his family and his friends in our thoughts and prayers and wish him strength and courage as he fights this illness”:

“The team at M-Net has the utmost respect and admiration for Derek and his commitment to the channel for the last 36 years. Derek’s immense contribution to Carte Blanche forms the tapestry and legacy of the M-Net brand. We will continue to support him during this challenging time.”

Watts’ work with M-Net has taken him from Mount Everest to the nuclear aircraft carrier George Washington during the Gulf War.

Let’s just hope he doesn’t end up staying in that garish-green gown for much longer.

[source:news24]