Broadcaster 5 has commissioned a two-part factual drama series exploring the downfall of former BBC presenter Huw Edwards. The programme, starring Martin Clunes, will delve into the events leading to his conviction for making indecent images of children. It promises insights into power, secrecy, and accountability through interviews and scripted elements.
A new television drama is set to recount the scandal that ended the career of Huw Edwards, one of the BBC's most prominent newsreaders. Commissioned by Broadcaster 5, formerly known as Channel 5, the two-part factual series charts how Edwards, born in Bridgend, Wales, lived what producers call a 'double life' while fronting major national events, including the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
The scandal broke in July 2023 when The Sun reported allegations that a top BBC star had paid a teenager for sexual images. Edwards' wife soon identified him publicly, leading to his resignation from the BBC in April 2024. In July 2024, the 64-year-old father of five pleaded guilty at Westminster Magistrates’ Court to three counts of making indecent images of children. The court details revealed a WhatsApp conversation from December 2020 to August 2021, where an adult man sent Edwards 377 sexual images, including 41 indecent ones of children—one depicting a child aged seven to nine.
Edwards received a six-month suspended prison sentence for two years and was ordered to pay £3,000 in costs. He has since kept a low public profile.
Titled Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards (working title), the series features Martin Clunes, known from Doc Martin, portraying Edwards. Directed by Michael Samuels, it includes interviews with journalists and investigators who uncovered the story. This marks the first joint project between 5's factual and scripted teams.
Ben Frow, 5's chief content officer, described it as 'an important and shocking story of how a man in a position of power and trust betrayed that status.' He emphasized the human cost behind the headlines and the channel's exclusive access to key figures.
