Viewers who tuned into Channel 5's new factual drama, Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, have been blown away by Martin Clunes' "outstanding" performance.
The Doc Martin star portrayed disgraced news presenter Huw Edwards in the drama, which explores the story of "how a vulnerable 17-year-old was groomed by one of the most powerful figures in television," according to the synopsis.
© ©5 Broadcasting Limited / ©WonIn 2023, a report by The Sun alleged that a "top BBC star" had paid a teenager for sexual pictures. Huw, who at the time was one of Britain's most trusted broadcaster's, later pleaded guilty to making indecent images of children. He also admitted to having 41 photographs on WhatsApp, including seven of the most serious type.
The new drama tells the story of Ryan (played by Osian Morgan), a 17-year-old who was groomed by Edwards over many months, according to Channel 5, which led to the newsreader's "downfall, disgrace and the end of his life in the public eye".
© ©5 Broadcasting Limited / ©WonWhat are viewers saying about the show?
Viewers have hailed Martin's performance in the hard-hitting drama as "phenomenal," with many calling for the actor to win a BAFTA for his "career-defining" turn as the disgraced presenter.
Taking to X, one person wrote: "No wonder Huw Edwards is furious; this drama is damning, and Martin Clunes is giving a career-defining performance. He deserves a BAFTA. Absolutely riveting," while another added: "Shocking stuff on The Downfall of Huw Edwards but my god Martin clunes is such a brilliant actor."
© ©5 Broadcasting Limited / ©WonA third viewer penned: "Martin Clunes & Osian Morgan. Absolutely phenomenal performances, take a bow," while another added: "Just give Martin Clunes the BAFTA now. The best compliment that I can give him is that he chilled me to the bone."
What has Huw Edwards said about the drama?
Huw has claimed that the production company, Wonderhood Studios, failed to check the "truth" of the narratives shown in the drama.
"[They] made no attempt to check with me the truth of any aspect of their narrative before going ahead with the production," Huw told the Daily Mail.
© PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo"They belatedly asked for a response after the drama had been made, while reserving the right to edit any such response," the presenter said. "They also refused to disclose whether any of those making allegations had been paid for their contributions."
He continued: "Channel 5's 'factual drama' is hardly likely to convey the reality of what happened."
In his statement, Huw added that he felt "deep regret and remorse" for his actions and said his behaviour was "reckless, shameful, and damaging".
Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is on Channel 5 now.
