The Downfall of Huw Edwards

5 has commissioned Wonderhood Studios to produce Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards (w/t), a major two‑part factual drama that traces how one of Britain’s most trusted broadcasters led a double life that ultimately destroyed his career. A year in development, the project marks the first collaboration between 5’s factual and scripted commissioning teams.

Starring Martin Clunes as Edwards, the series charts the newsreader’s dramatic fall from grace — from delivering the historic announcement of Queen Elizabeth II’s death to withdrawing entirely from public life following his conviction for serious child sexual offences. What the nation didn’t know was that behind the scenes, Edwards was grooming a vulnerable 17‑year‑old and soliciting explicit images from young men, while also engaging with a separate online contact who repeatedly sent him child abuse imagery, including Category A material.

The scandal erupted in July 2023 when a national newspaper revealed that a “top BBC star” had paid a teenager for explicit photos. As the story spread, police investigations intensified, ultimately leading Edwards to plead guilty to making indecent images of children at Westminster Magistrates Court.

Drawing on extensive research, first‑hand interviews, and exclusive access to The Sun’s award‑winning investigation, the series offers an unflinching, deeply human account of how months of grooming and manipulation led to Edwards’ downfall — and the devastating impact on those caught in the blast radius.

Ben Frow, Chief Content Officer, 5, said: “This is an important and shocking story — of how a man in a position of power and trust betrayed that status. By gaining exclusive access to the key individuals involved and those who investigated the story, we explore the human cost behind the headlines.”

David Abraham, Founder and Group CEO, Wonderhood Studios, added: “Drama has the power to uncover profound psychological truths, and we are incredibly grateful to our brave contributors for trusting us with their story.”

Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards (w/t) is produced by Wonderhood Studios and co‑produced with Krempelwood. It is directed by BAFTA and Emmy winner Michael Samuels, written by Mark Burt, and produced by Angie Daniell, with casting by Jenny Duffy and factual production by Louise Kentleton. Executive producers are Samantha Anstiss and Tom Garton