Updated on 26 August: M-Net will open the Carte Blanche episode on Sunday, 27 August 2023, to all DStv customers in South Africa. This means that M-Net (DStv Channel 101) will be available from 19:00 on Sunday, 27 August 2023 to all DStv packages including Compact Plus, Compact Family, Access and EasyView. The extension of the Carte Blanche episode to all DStv packages is in celebration of his legacy.
To celebrate the life and influence of the late iconic broadcaster Derek Watts, M-Net will on Saturday, 26 August, flight a special documentary in his honour.
The veteran investigative journalist and long-time Carte Blanche presenter passed away on 22 August 2023. An integral part of the M-Net family, his immense contribution to Carte Blanche over the past three decades forms part of the tapestry of the M-Net brand.
“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?” wrote Carte Blanche executive producer John Webb. “I’ve 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.”
For years, viewers grew to love Derek’s probing style of interviewing and his unmistakeable voice. He was a formidable investigative journalist with a strong onscreen presence – a magical formula which made Carte Blanche a must-watch broadcast every Sunday night. He was loved and admired by many for his humility, his charm, and his larger-than-life personality.
In honour of his legacy, M-Net will broadcast the documentary Derek Watts: A Tribute on 26 August, 19:00. It will trace his life, career, and his massive contribution to South African journalism and broadcasting.
“Derek Watts was a longstanding and iconic presence on M-Net, and his time on Carte Blanche is deeply woven into our tapestry,” said Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice CEO of General Entertainment. “Celebrating his legacy is not only a way to show our deepfelt gratitude for his longstanding contribution to the channel, but to inspire us all to carry on the values that Derek lived – kindness, integrity and commitment to the truth.”
Carte Blanche has confirmed that its 27 August episode on Sunday will be in honour of Derek.
“This Sunday, the Carte Blanche family stands together to pay tribute to our beloved colleague and friend. 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,” said Webb. ”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. Derek dedicated his life to telling South Africa’s story. “
Share your pictures with Derek here.
Both shows will be available on DStv Premium on M-Net (Channel 101) and live-streamed on DStv Stream. They will also be available on DStv Catch Up after broadcast.