Former BBC newsreader Huw Edwards has attempted to relaunch his public career with a new blog, but critics argue he has failed to acknowledge the severity of his crimes. Edwards, 64, pleaded guilty in 2024 to three counts of making indecent images of children, receiving 41 images including seven of the most serious category. He received a six-month suspended sentence and was placed on the sex offenders register for seven years.
Edwards Launches Substack Blog
Edwards began a Substack newsletter titled “restart - relaunch,” writing a 300-word introductory post. He opened with greetings in multiple languages: “Croeso. Fáilte. Bienvenue. Welcome.” The blog promises commentary on politics, media, journalism, culture, the criminal justice system, mental health, and trauma recovery. Edwards stated: “For those who might be interested, I would like to start tentatively by offering some commentary and analysis based on my long experience.” He added that he aims to “make a positive contribution” and share thoughts on “overcoming trauma, and attempting to rebuild some kind of worthwhile life.”
Criticism Over Lack of Apology
Commentator Giles Sheldrick, writing for the publication, criticised Edwards for failing to express remorse or apologise for his crimes. Sheldrick noted that Edwards did not mention the victims of child sexual exploitation or acknowledge the distress caused to his wife Vicky Flind and their five children. Instead, Edwards focused on his own experiences, saying: “I am also ready to be unflinchingly honest about the reality of long-term mental illness.” Sheldrick described the blog as “self-pitying” and accused Edwards of trying to “reinvent himself” without addressing his conviction.
Limited Subscriber Base
As of the report, Edwards’ Substack had attracted just over 300 subscribers. Sheldrick concluded that the public has little interest in Edwards’ opinions, stating: “No one is remotely interested – nor much cares – what you or any other child sex pervert has to say.” Edwards was previously paid approximately £600,000 annually to read the BBC news. His conviction adds to a list of disgraced former BBC employees, including Jimmy Savile, Rolf Harris, and Stuart Hall.
