Disgraced former BBC newsreader Huw Edwards has ignited fresh rumours of a potential return to public life after posting a carefully curated professional portrait online. The move coincides with the mysterious removal of his £4.75 million family home from estate agents' websites, sparking intense speculation about his next steps.
A Property Sale in Limbo and a Polished New Image
The 64-year-old, who left the BBC under a cloud, had been attempting to sell his substantial six-bedroom home in the affluent Dulwich Village for over a year. Initially listed for £4.75 million, the mid-century mansion failed to attract buyers despite a series of significant price reductions. The asking price was first cut by £250,000, then £500,000, and finally by £750,000.
Last week, the property listing was abruptly 'removed' from public view on estate agent sites. While viewings are understood to be continuing discreetly, the public withdrawal has raised questions. An agent from Pedder, the firm handling the sale, declined to comment to journalists on the reason for the removal.
In a seemingly coordinated move, Edwards updated his official Facebook profile on Sunday with a conspicuously polished black-and-white headshot. The photograph shows the former presenter in a suit jacket, with designer white stubble and a faint half-smile, a stark contrast to his low profile since his conviction.
Public Reaction and a Troubled Past
The new image immediately prompted followers to question his motives. One commented, 'Is he on the comeback trail? Why else would he suddenly get a professional portrait done?' Another observed, 'The whole thing screams image rehabilitation.' Edwards methodically 'liked' each comment, including well-wishes from some former viewers.
This potential rebranding attempt follows a dramatic fall from grace for the once-revered anchor. In July 2024, Edwards pleaded guilty to accessing indecent photographs of children. The conviction came after a year of scandal that began when he was named as the BBC presenter accused of paying a young person for sexually explicit images.
He received a six-month suspended sentence in September 2024 and was ordered by the BBC to repay £200,000 of his salary, which was funded by the licence fee, that he received after his initial arrest in November 2023.
Personal Turmoil and an Unsold Mansion
The future of his Dulwich property remains uncertain. Edwards and his wife, Vicky Flind, purchased the 4,200 sq ft home for £1.85 million in 2006 and are believed to own it outright. The couple, who have five children, are now in the process of divorcing after nearly 30 years of marriage.
Despite the removal of the public listing, the 4,200 sq ft house—described as a 'substantial family home' on 'one of Dulwich's most desirable residential roads'—remains unsold. Adverts had previously showcased features including a pool table, a living room with a large skylight, and a piano room.
Before this online activity, Edwards had kept a notably low profile. His last public sighting was in August in Swansea, where he was seen with a new white beard and glasses, carrying mini bottles of Prosecco. He was notably wearing a wedding ring despite the ongoing divorce proceedings.
The combination of a halted multi-million pound property sale and a sudden investment in a professional public image leaves a clear question: is Huw Edwards attempting to stage a return to the public eye, and if so, in what capacity?
