Man allegedly groomed by Huw Edwards issues powerful message as scandal drama airs

The man who was allegedly groomed by Huw Edwards has spoken out after the controversial drama focusing on the downfall of former BBC News presenter aired last night.

Edwards was the face of BBC News for many years, presenting crucial broadcasts including the coverage of Queen Elizabeth II's death, but saw his career in ruins after charges were brought against him by police.

Although he eventually pleaded guilty to three charges of making indecent images of children, receiving a six month suspended sentence, the new drama instead focuses on the 64-year-old's alleged victim, a 17-year-old who was paid thousands of pounds to send indecent images to the disgraced presenter.

The Sun had kickstarted investigations into Edwards back in 2023 after reporting that 'a top BBC star' had paid a 'teenager for sexual pictures', and he later resigned, with his wife citing his 'mental health issues' as the reason.

The man, who is now 23, had struggled with drug addiction in the wake of his fragmented relationship with Edwards and worked closely with producers of the drama to ensure that his story was told in the right way. He has been given the name Ryan Davies to protect his identity.

Ryan said: "After years of struggle, I have finally overcome my battle with drugs. I refuse to let Huw Edwards or what he did define who I am or the life I will yet lead.

"I chose to tell my story so no one who has been silenced feels they are alone. Your truth deserves to be heard."

In a furious statement to the Daily Mail, Edwards: "Channel 5's 'factual drama' is hardly likely to convey the reality of what happened.

"[They] made no attempt to check with me the truth of any aspect of their narrative before going ahead with the production.

"They belatedly asked for a response after the drama had been made, while reserving the right to edit any such response. They also refused to disclose whether any of those making allegations had been paid for their contributions."

Martin Clunes, who portrays the registered sex offender in the new drama, has already responded to the claims made by Edwards, while the producing team have also defended the show by insisting that it's the right time to tell the alleged victim's story.

Martin Clunes plays Edwards in the drama (Channel 5)

Executive producer Sam Anstiss said: "People have talked about the timing of this drama and I would say the timing is really right. Foremost because the victim says it’s right, he’s ready to tell his story, and there are really urgent themes in this drama around online safety, child pornography [and] the leniency of the sentencing.

"The victim is an incredible young man and I was struck by his big smile and polite manner when I met him, and how resilient he has been throughout this.

"We said whatever changes the victim wanted would have to be made. He was front and centre of our production approach."

Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is available to watch on Channel 5 now.