Huw Edwards: Power, Grooming & The Downfall – Channel 5 Drama

A Disappointing Portrait of a Public Figure

Channel 5’s new drama, Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, attempts to unpack the scandal that engulfed the veteran BBC newsreader, but early reviews suggest it falls short of providing satisfying answers. The two-part series, which premiered on March 24, 2026, has been criticized for being “frustratingly bland” and lacking in depth, according to reviews in The Standard. The drama centers on the allegations made against Edwards and the subsequent fallout, but the execution appears to be where the production stumbles.

The series stars Martin Clunes as Huw Edwards, a casting choice that has already drawn criticism. The narrative quickly establishes Edwards as a figure of immense professional respect, “lauded by his peers,” before pivoting to portray him as a manipulative figure. The show depicts Edwards grooming a young man, identified as Ryan, through financial gifts, diction lessons, and emotionally charged complaints about a perceived lack of gratitude. This grooming process is described as occurring with “ruthless efficiency” and is largely conveyed through virtual interactions.

The Scandal Unfolds: A Brief Recap

Huw Edwards, a mainstay of British news broadcasting for decades, became the subject of intense scrutiny in 2023 following allegations of inappropriate behavior. The BBC launched an investigation after reports surfaced of Edwards paying a young person for sexually explicit images. While Edwards was not formally charged with a crime, the scandal led to his suspension and eventual resignation from the BBC. Radio Times provides a detailed timeline of the events leading up to and following the allegations.

Clunes’ Performance and the Show’s Approach

The portrayal of Edwards by Martin Clunes is a key point of contention. The review highlights Clunes’ ability to convey a “sociopathic stare,” suggesting a deliberate attempt to depict Edwards as a cold and calculating individual. However, the show’s reliance on virtual interactions to depict the grooming process has been criticized for creating distance and hindering emotional impact. The lack of exploration into the motivations and experiences of the alleged victim, Ryan, is similarly a significant concern.

Beyond the Headlines: The Broader Context

The Huw Edwards scandal sent shockwaves through the BBC and the wider media landscape. It raised serious questions about the organization’s internal culture, safeguarding procedures, and handling of sensitive allegations. The incident also sparked a national conversation about power dynamics, consent, and the responsibilities of public figures. The Hollywood Reporter notes that Edwards himself has publicly expressed concern over a film depicting the scandal, specifically regarding the inclusion of images related to child sexual abuse.

The Reaction and Critical Reception

Initial reactions to Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards have been largely negative. Critics have lamented the show’s lack of nuance, its reliance on sensationalism, and its failure to offer meaningful insights into the complex issues at play. The review in The Standard describes the series as a missed opportunity to explore a significant and troubling story with the depth and sensitivity it deserves. The Guardian’s review echoes these sentiments, describing Martin Clunes’ performance as “sickening” and the overall production as deeply unsatisfying.

What’s Next for the Series and the Story

The second part of Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is scheduled to air on Channel 5 on March 25, 2026. It remains to be seen whether the remaining episodes will address the criticisms leveled against the series and offer a more comprehensive and nuanced portrayal of the events. The long-term impact of the scandal on Huw Edwards’ career and reputation remains uncertain, and the BBC continues to grapple with the fallout from the allegations. The case also raises ongoing questions about the media’s responsibility to protect vulnerable individuals and hold powerful figures accountable.

The series’ procedural path forward will likely be dictated by viewership numbers for the second installment. Channel 5 will be assessing whether the initial negative press significantly impacts audience engagement. Further investigations or documentaries on the subject are possible, but will likely depend on the emergence of new information or a shift in public interest.