In the chilling new footage, Clunes is seen sporting Edwards’ signature silver hair and somber expression as he portrays the downfall of one of Britain’s most powerful television figures.
The two-part factual drama, titled Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, is set to explore the “double life” of the Llanelli-born presenter as it spiralled out of control.
For many in the local area, the fall of Edwards was a particularly bitter blow, given his deep roots in the village of Llangennech, where his father was a prominent figure.
The series is expected to delve into how the man who once championed Welsh culture and history on the world stage became embroiled in a sordid secret life.
(Image: Channel 5)
Channel 5 has confirmed the production will focus on how Edwards groomed a vulnerable 17-year-old over many months while maintaining his status as the nation’s most-trusted newsreader.
The trailer features a dramatic recreation of the moment Edwards announced the death of Queen Elizabeth II to millions, juxtaposed with his secret online activities.
For Martin Clunes, the role marks a startling and gritty departure from the “cosy” comedy-drama of Doc Martin that made him a household name.
The 64-year-old actor, usually known for his lovable, if grumpy, portrayal of the Portwenn GP, appears almost unrecognisable as the disgraced newsman.
Viewers are given a glimpse into the rapid unravelling of his secrets after a national newspaper first reported that a “top BBC star” had paid a teenager for sexual pictures.
The production, which has been a year in the making, is the first major collaboration between Channel 5’s factual and scripted commissioning teams.
It is based on extensive research and first-hand interviews with those at the heart of the scandal, promising an “unflinching” look at the human cost behind the headlines.
The drama will also cover Edwards’ formal resignation from the BBC following medical advice and his subsequent conviction for serious child sexual offences.
Ben Frow, Chief Content Officer at Channel 5, described the series as an “important and shocking story” about a man in a position of power who betrayed the public’s trust.
The series is directed by BAFTA-winner Michael Samuels and written by Mark Burt, with the production team gaining exclusive access to the investigation that led to Edwards’ downfall.
Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is expected to air later this year, with the trailer already sparking intense debate on social media about the “nuanced and complex” portrayal of the disgraced star.
