Remembering a South African Broadcasting Legend: A Conversation with Derek Watts

"As much as we know, and we think we know, we only see one side, or we may we see what we're allowed to see." - Derek Watts

Derek Watts passed away yesterday. He was South Africa's Andy Rooney, Morley Safer and Mike Wallace rolled into one...and so much more. I sat down with him 3 months into COVID (June 2020) on then-CoronaTV (now Joseph Jaffe is not Famous). You can watch the episode here and cringe all you like in terms of Wayne's World meets 60-minutes with a bit of irony insofar that Derek looked like he was joining from a bunker. Either that, or he was moonlighting as Harrison Ford!

When I think of the greats in journalism, names like Ed Bradley, Steve Kroft, Andy Rooney, Morley Safer, Leslie Stahl, Mike Wallace, and Derek Watts come to mind. These individuals redefined the news magazine program, paving the way for investigative journalism and captivating storytelling. 3 months into COVID, I had the privilege of sitting down with one of these legends, Derek Watts, who has been a prominent figure in South African broadcasting for over three decades.

Growing up, Derek’s father always said to him, "What's the worst thing that can happen?" It's a sentiment that has stayed with him, a reminder that facing fear head-on often leads to the most incredible opportunities. An engineer turned managing director, Derek's father had a streak of journalism in him, writing letters to local newspapers and even becoming the chairman of the Broadcasting Corporation. This early exposure to the world of media may well have planted the seeds that would later flourish into Derek's illustrious broadcasting career.

As we delved into Derek's journey, I was struck by his dedication and genuine passion for journalism. From his early days as a cadet reporter to his current role as the face of "Carte Blanche," Derek's enthusiasm for telling stories and uncovering the truth was palpable. He highlighted the transformation of journalism over the years, especially with the advent of smartphones, social media, and the rise of citizen journalists. The immediacy of news delivery has never been greater, but the challenge lies in sifting through the flood of information to discern fact from fiction.

A Life Defined by Chance and Choice

Derek's life journey embodies the notion that every experience, regardless of its trajectory, contributes to the narrative of who we become. We discussed how Madeleine Albright's story resonates deeply with this concept - that the twists and turns, though seemingly unrelated, eventually culminate in a unique life path. This narrative is a reminder that life rarely follows a linear route; it meanders and evolves in ways that we might not have anticipated.

Embracing the Unknown with Courage

Derek's journey in journalism started by chance, but as fate would have it, it was a meeting that changed the course of his life forever. Sitting down to breakfast at a hotel in East London, his boss asked him a simple question, "Do you enjoy this job?" With honesty, Derek replied that while he didn't wake up every morning excited about selling plastic bottles, he had a greater passion stirring within him. That conversation marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would see him become a cadet reporter, then a sports reporter, and eventually the beloved host of South Africa's iconic news program, "Carte Blanche."

From Setbacks to Successes: A Quirk of Fate

Derek's journey took an unexpected turn when a back injury led him from running a squash center to a career as a sports presenter. This serendipitous event propelled him into a new chapter, illustrating that life's challenges can pave the way for unforeseen opportunities.

Learning to Challenge Assumptions

As we explored the stories of those Derek encountered, a key takeaway emerged: the danger of making assumptions about people based on limited information. Derek emphasized the importance of not judging others by face value, as he himself learned through countless interviews that people often defy stereotypes.

Whether meeting celebrities, politicians, or everyday people, the lesson remains the same - avoid making assumptions and embrace the layers that define each individual's unique story.

People: The Mosaic of Our Lives

Our conversation delved into the influence of encounters and relationships in shaping our stories. Derek vividly recalled interactions with individuals like Michael DeMorgan, who left an indelible mark on him. These connections, sometimes fleeting but profound, contribute to the richness of our life tapestries.

A Lesson in Enthusiasm and Authenticity

Derek shared his interactions with luminaries like Larry King and Jane Fonda, noting their genuine authenticity. These individuals stood out for their unwavering enthusiasm and consistent embodiment of who they appeared to be on screen. This lesson in authenticity speaks volumes about the impact of being true to oneself.

Seeking the Unseen

Our conversation concluded with a reflection on the underlying message of our interactions: the journey to understanding individuals is a lifelong pursuit.

Journalism was so much more than a career to Derek, it was a calling. Derek's journey exemplifies the power of following one's passions, even when the path isn't preordained. His influence in South African broadcasting is undeniable, and his commitment to sharing authentic stories has left an indelible mark on the media landscape.

In the words of Walter Cronkite, "I can't imagine a person becoming a success who doesn't give the game of life everything he's got." Derek Watts embodies this spirit of dedication and determination, reminding us all that journalism is not just about reporting news—it's about uncovering truth, shaping narratives, and fostering a more informed and empowered society.

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