Family, friends, and loved ones all gathered for Derek Watt’s memorial service on 31 August, Devi Sankaree Govender could not attend the service in person, but her video message revealed just how much she would miss her dear friend and colleague.

 

 

DEVI’S VIDEO MESSAGE
Devi opened the video message by first saying how difficult it was for her to sit down and put her thoughts together. She admitted that the celebration of Derek’s life gave her the realisation that his passing had affected her deeply.

She went on to state that Derek was like a father to her, she first saw him on Carte Blanche when she was just 15. Devi Sankaree Govender then went on to join the show in her 20s and by then, the show had 14 years under its belt.

DEVI AND DEREK
She goes on to admit how star-struck she was when she met Derek for the first time. However, his kind nature made her feel like family and an equal right from the start. She went on to stay at Carte Blanche for 18 years. She grew in the industry with Derek ‘Big D’, as she affectionately calls him, being only a phone call away.

When she shot her final episode for Carte Blanche Derek was there to offer his support and guidance. She took the leap.

DEREK’S FAMILY
Devi then went on to send her condolences to Derek’s family who were in attendance at the memorial. She thanked them for sharing ‘Big D’ with the entire country.

Devi and Derek during downtime at Carte Blanche. Image: Instagram via @devi_hq
She added that she could not be there in person because unfortunately ‘the show must go on.’ She goes on to thank him for his influence on journalism, presenting and media in South Africa as a whole.

R.I.P.
As we bid a heartfelt goodbye to the legendary Derek Watts, we reflect upon the indelible mark he has left on the world of journalism. Derek’s unwavering commitment to truth, integrity, and storytelling excellence has made him an icon, not only in South Africa but across the globe.